Scottish Government ponders tablet computers’ role in schools

WAYS of promoting the use of tablet computers in schools are to be explored by the Scottish Government.

National agency Education Scotland will look at where devices such as the iPad are already being used in the classroom to consider whether they could be used on a wider scale.

However, education secretary Mike Russell said there was currently no money available for providing all school pupils with tablets.

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Ten local authorities, almost 20 schools and hundreds of pupils are already using a range of devices, including iPads at Sciennes Primary School in Edinburgh and Android technology at Morgan Academy in Dundee.

One Scottish private school, Cedars School of Excellence in Greenock, is already seeing positive results after introducing leased iPads for all students in 2010, a move it claims was a first anywhere in the world.

Mr Russell said: “I want Scottish school pupils to be both connected and collaborative and I want to see digital technology being used purposefully both in and out of school.

“I have asked Education Scotland for recommendations on how we can realise the benefits of mobile technology for all learners in Scotland, including ensuring how we get the best possible value for our schools, and whether national guidance is needed for the sector.”