In today’s digital age, electronic gadgets such as tablets and smartphones have become ubiquitous in many aspects of our lives, including education. These devices have transformed the traditional classroom setup and created new opportunities for both teachers and students.

A study conducted by Behnke, Gilliland, Schneider and Singer in 2005 found that using gadgets such as tablets in class can contribute to improved student performance. The study showed that the use of electronic devices can help increase student engagement, promote active learning, and enhance the learning experience. This can lead to improved academic achievement and a decrease in the number of students who perform poorly in class.

Also see 10 Benefits and Uses of Electronic Gadgets in Learning

The Pros

The benefits of using gadgets in the classroom extend beyond just improving student performance. These devices can also help improve the efficiency of teaching methods and learning capacities of students. By using tablets in class, teachers can create a more interactive and engaging learning environment. With the help of educational apps and software, teachers can deliver their lessons in a more dynamic and interactive way, allowing students to actively participate in the learning process.

These 7 tablets offer a range of features to enhance the learning experience, from interactive apps to powerful processing capabilities. Each has its strengths, so the choice may depend on specific classroom needs and preferences.

1. Apple iPad Pro (2023): Known for its powerful performance and vibrant display, the iPad Pro is a favorite for its versatility, making it ideal for various educational applications and interactive lessons.
2. Samsung Galaxy Tab S8: Samsung’s flagship tablet offers a stunning Super AMOLED display and powerful hardware. It’s a great choice for educators looking for a high-performance Android tablet.
3. Microsoft Surface Pro 8: With its detachable keyboard and stylus support, the Surface Pro 8 is a versatile 2-in-1 device. It runs on Windows, providing compatibility with a wide range of educational software.
4. Lenovo Tab P12 Pro: Lenovo’s premium tablet boasts a sleek design and a powerful processor. It’s suitable for both entertainment and productivity, making it a good fit for educational purposes.
5. Google Pixel Slate: Running on Chrome OS, the Pixel Slate offers a desktop-like experience in a tablet form. It supports a variety of educational apps from the Google Play Store and benefits from seamless integration with Google Workspace for Education.
6. Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro: Specifically designed for younger students, the Fire HD 10 Kids Pro comes with robust parental controls, educational content, and a durable build. It’s an excellent choice for elementary and middle school classrooms.
7. Huawei MatePad Pro 12.6: Huawei’s flagship tablet combines a premium design with powerful hardware. It’s suitable for multitasking and content creation, making it a good option for teachers who require a versatile device.

Moreover, electronic gadgets have made activities conducted in classrooms more flexible. These devices offer various features and functions that can efficiently transform teaching and learning methods. For instance, teachers can use tablets to incorporate multimedia elements such as videos, images, and animations to make their lessons more engaging and dynamic. This can help students better understand complex concepts and retain information more effectively.

In addition, different senses of students are activated through the use of gadgets in the classroom. Students can learn through auditory, visual, and kinesthetic means by using electronic devices. This means that students who have different learning styles can benefit from using gadgets in the classroom. For instance, visual learners can benefit from watching educational videos on a tablet, while auditory learners can benefit from listening to audio recordings of their lessons.

The Cons

Despite the many benefits of using gadgets in the classroom, some people are concerned about the potential drawbacks. One of the major concerns is that the use of electronic devices can be a distraction for students. With social media, messaging apps, and other digital distractions just a click away, students may find it difficult to stay focused during class. However, teachers can mitigate this risk by establishing clear guidelines on the use of gadgets in the classroom and setting up parental controls on devices to limit access to non-educational content.

Another concern is the potential negative impact of screen time on children’s health. While excessive screen time can have negative effects on children’s physical and mental health, the use of electronic devices in the classroom can be a healthy alternative to traditional teaching methods. With the right balance of screen time and physical activity, students can enjoy the benefits of using gadgets in the classroom without putting their health at risk.

All that being said, the use of electronic gadgets in the classroom can contribute to improved student performance, enhance the efficiency of teaching methods, and activate different senses of students. Despite some concerns, the benefits of using gadgets in the classroom far outweigh the potential drawbacks. With the right guidelines and balance, teachers can use these devices to create a more engaging, interactive, and dynamic learning environment for their students.