Which device?
In order to be useful in the learning programme, student devices will have to meet a small number of minimum requirements. This will help to minimise technical and safety issues, as well as provide clear guidelines for choosing a device.
Minimum Requirements:
Screen size: 7" minimum screen size ( approx 1024px horizontal resolution)
Network access: 802.11n ( 'N'-standard wifi ) or better
Battery Life: Continuous use for up to 3 hours.
Internet: able to access internet resources effectively
Pros & Cons of different form factors
There are disadvantages and advantages to all devices. Each has its own merits based on price, quality, power, flexibility, availability of programs, lifespan, etc. It is impossible to make any one specific recommendation because there is no one device that is the "perfect device". The images below show some of the advantages and disadvantages of different types of device.
Other factors to consider
Personal preference
You or your child may already have a well-developed set of skills with a particular device.
Fit-for-Purpose
All of the above devices will be useful in our learning programme. Some have clear advantages in areas of media capture ( e.g. tablets ) while others have strong advantages in areas of internet use ( e.g. laptops )
Lifespan
While you may have an older PC sitting at home that is bomb-proof and has lasted for years and years, the unfortunate truth with digital devices today is that they are not designed to last... a lifespan of around 4-5 years is very optimistic for many mobile devices. The rate of change in the computing market is so much higher and shows no sign of slowing down. A device you decide is best for your 10 year old now may not be suitable for a growing teenager. Whether you agree with the ethical issues at play or not, computers are becoming a "disposable" item these days. Thinking a few years ahead is sensible. Making choices today that will be best fit for the long term may be challenging - not in the least because the technology changes so quickly we don't even know what devices will look like in five years!