Should Tablets replace textbooks in schools ? Pros and Cons

Should tablets replace textbooks in schools? is a topic being discussed today. These days, various ed-tech platforms are promoting tablets to their subscribers. These tablets have e-books and several pieces of content in audio-visual format. The question is: can these tablets become the replacement for physical books, and why should textbooks not be replaced by these tablets? Well, it has both advantages and disadvantages; let us discuss in detail both aspects:

Table of Contents

Should Tablets replace textbooks in schools? In favour:

Tablets are convenient to carry; these days, students carry huge weights in the form of books. Tablets will make students free from the burden.
In case of any curiosity, students can access any information immediately with internet-connected tablets.

It will enhance curiosity and research skills at an early stage.
Study in the form of audio and visuals will provide conceptual clarity to the students.
Several app-based games can make subjects like math and science more interesting. Generally, students find these subjects tough.
To publish the books, lakhs of trees are cut every year. Tablets are environment-friendly and can save many trees.
Moreover, incorporating changes into them will take not less than a few years. Introducing tablets will solve all these problems. The tablets, many believe, will save money and improve learning as well.
Every year, large sums of money are spent on publishing textbooks. Tablets can save this money, which can be spent on providing education to needy children.
Technology-oriented education will save money and ensure holistic learning for our future generation.
Should tablets replace textbooks? Another point that goes in favour of tablets is that in the event of any error, misprinting, or misrepresentation, it can easily be rectified.
These days, kids are already exposed to smartphones and computers. So, the use of tablets should not be concerning.
Bill Gates could not have discovered Microsoft if he had not been given exposure to computers and coding at an early age. Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk are other examples.

This is an era of technology. We are talking about how artificial intelligence and the metaverse will have an impact on our future. The American, who is a leader in technology, is much ahead of us. If India wants to lead in the field of technology, we should not be scared of bringing technology to our upcoming generation.
It will also reduce the psychological burden children face from looking at thick books. Generally, a student feels pressure after looking at the thick books and syllabus. Tablets will eliminate that boredom and encourage the students to study.

Should Tablets replace textbooks in schools? Against

Holistic learning will not come from merely reading on tablets; it also requires writing and practicing, which are only possible through books.
Electronic devices are generally considered distracting; if students are given a tablet with an internet connection, there is a possibility that they will switch to other platforms.
It will be very difficult for the teachers and school management to maintain discipline in the class.

Although there are e-books available, readers still prefer to read physical books because holding a book in hand gives the important parts another touch and feel.
Tablets are expensive gadgets compared to books; if stolen, broken, or lost once, it will not be possible for the parents to provide it again.
In case of theft, loss, or any technical problem with tablets, students will lose all the notes, bookmarks, etc. they have taken. So, it will cause mental harassment for the students.
These days, due to mobile phones, children are already exposed to more than enough screen time. The use of tablets instead of books will enhance screen time excessively.
Should tablets replace textbooks in schools? Another point that goes in favour of books is that they can create health issues for children, like strain in the eyes, headaches, etc.
Parents, too, will not be able to keep tabs on children. Even if the kids are playing games, chatting with friends, or doing something else, parents will not be able to keep an eye on them. This will further demand for an alternative monitoring system.

It is said that trees are cut down to produce paper, but using tablets will also cause e-waste. Also, to charge a tablet, electricity will be required. Presently, India produces most of its electricity from burning coal. So, it will also cause damage to the environment.

Conclusion:

Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” So, it is very important how education is provided to the upcoming generation. If it is provided with the right approach, this will lead to the development of not only a particular country but also humanity. Should tablets replace textbooks in schools is a big question. We should keep in mind that if we are choosing tablets instead of books, the decision should first be made, and any decision should be taken after the consultation of an educationalist and a sociologist.