Missouri school moves into 21st century with classroom tablets

Tablet computers are quickly joining the most sought-after technologies for education around the United States. While many schools are content with letting students bring in their own devices, others are taking initiative and purchasing tablets for their students.

This is the case at Grandview High School in Grandview, Missouri. According to local news provider STLtoday, the school district has purchased 400 tablets, which students will be able to take home with them and use throughout the duration of their high school careers.

The tablets, which cost roughly $160 each, are replacing many of the textbooks used in the classroom, which can cost anywhere between $80 to $120 apiece, the news provider notes. Additionally, the school spent $100,000 on internet upgrades to support the wide use of mobile devices.

Though the initial costs are high, the school estimates that it will save significantly on textbook purchases down the road. This year, according to the news source, the school saved $25,000 on textbooks.

Tablets aren't the only technology finding their way into classrooms. For example, Milkin Community High School in Los Angeles has used laptop computers in the classroom for two years to teach students about the ethics of technology, the Jewish Journal reports.