A recent article published on FoxNews.com raises the question of whether the iPad can be considered a ‘Miracle Device’ for Autism. Devices that use a touchscreen, such as the iPad, can help children that struggle with sensory overload. Parents have noticed the positive effects that using iPads can have on their children, but can that change be transferred into an educational setting?

As teachers, we depend on student participation to guide classroom discussions and to evaluate the students’ understanding of the material. But sometimes we overlook the fact that students need time to listen and process what others are saying in order to truly understand and learn. Learning how to reflect on what has been said is an important part of learning. The students who typically have a lot to say usually sit through class thinking of what to say next, instead of listening and learning from their peers. And as teachers, we tend to pay more attention to the students that consistently raise their hands to share their thoughts or opinions. However, those that are listening might be learning just as much, if not more, than those consistently participating. One of the best ways to teach our students how to listen to others is to model that skill ourselves.

In an ideal world, each student would have ubiquitous access to technology, regardless of their socioeconomic status, background or circumstance. Unfortunately this is not the case, as far too many of our nation’s youth are not afforded this privilege. However, schools are the one place that we expect our children to be able to learn and experiment with technology, allowing them to keep up with the rest of the world.

The Master's Academy in Florida is taking this a step further, by becoming one of the first in the state to place an iPad in the hands of each and every high school student in the upcoming school year. In order to prepare for this, the teachers were all provided with iPads last fall in order to familiarize themselves with the device and expand on their curriculum for next year. While this sounds perfect in theory, the reality is this kind of opportunity only magnifies the potential liability that the school district may incur.