In society today, IPod's and MP3 players have become common household items. People young and old use these portable devices to listen to thier favorite music wherever they go. There is no doubt that these pieces of technology are benefical in a recreational aspect, however the common question is are they beneficial in education?

IPod's and MP3 players are beginning to become incorporated into the everyday cirriculum. Since most of today's IPod's and MP3 players have video and photo capabilities, teachers are beginning to use them as substitutes for common classroom items. Instead of using index cards as flash cards, many teachers having their students put their information on their IPod's and using them as digital flashcards. Through their IPod's students are also able to sync with the computer, and access class lecture notes, data, etc... Although these tiny forms of technology are very helpful in the classroom, they also contain downfalls. According to the Associated Press, many students have been caught cheating via IPod. Students are able to store notes or even answers in the lyrics portion of the IPod and view them while taking tests or quizzes. Because of its compact size, the IPod is easily concealable which makes it easy for children to cheat.

According to Associatedcontent.com 32% of students have never considered cheating, 50% of students would prefer not to cheat, and 18% of students have admittedly used IPod's to cheat. After researching the topic of the usage of IPod's and MP3 players in the classroom, the question it ultimately boils down to is "Should students have to power down before entering the classroom?"

Citations of Sources:
http://www.associatedcontent.com

Learning Connections article in Learning and Leading with Technology magazine