Computers have become a common feature within classrooms across the United Kingdom as lower and higher education establishments have incorporated information technology into the curriculum. Although libraries are integral as a source of research via books and journals, computer technology has continued to develop as an education resource, with modern specifications tailored for such purposes. Acorn desktop computers provided the foundations from which modern technology developed to the systems that are utilised today by students and teachers of all ages and disciplines. Establishments face a choice based on personal preference and unique requirements to decide whether to purchase information technology products manufactured by either Microsoft or Apple in education. Those who opt for the latter, either through one unit or an Apple learning lab, reap the significant benefits provided by Macintosh.
An Apple learning lab enables the creation of an environment in which pupils and students can prosper from a prime source of research and educational materials, while teachers have an excellent platform to not only provide visual illustrations to a class which have a didactic purpose, but also encourages direct interaction between learners and the educational material. Productivity levels and standard of the completed work is increased by the quality of the award-winning software packages, which are both simplistic to use and highly effective at producing worthwhile projects. Video editing and website design are just two of the number of accredited software which teachers and students can benefit from using.
Although certain individuals may be more accustomed to using Microsoft packages, integrating Apple in education allows access to both Windows and Macintosh programmes, which provide a unique versatility which PC units cannot offer. Both students and teachers can utilise an iPad for education purposes which provide a portable, digital solution to a standard desktop which can be used in any location. This is significantly beneficial for those who commute or regularly use public transport as iPads not only incorporate similar software packages, but also provide access to the internet via a wireless connection for research or administrative purposes. Both Macintosh computers and the iPad for education illustrates learning in the digital environment which Apple can provide that takes learning to a whole new level.