iOS 9.3’s New iPad Features Are a Must-Have in the Classroom

Since its debut, the iPad has been a powerful learning device that has made an impact on all markets. But one of the biggest changes the iPad made was how children learn in school. The intuitive, fun, and ease-of-use of an iPad makes it one of the most interactive ways in which children can learn.

So it should come as no surprise that Apple has sold over 8 million iPads directly to educational outlets. And now, Apple is bringing more functionality to their iPads in order to make them more classroom-friendly.

This past Monday, Apple announced that there will be a plethora of new education features and apps for the iPad with the release of iOS 9.3. One of the big changes is the integration of multiple user accounts on one iPad.

This would allow students to share an iPad and always have access to their apps, work, etc. upon logging into their account. And the best part? Students can log in from any iPad and still retrieve their work. However, if they are signing in through a regular iPad, the device will keep local copies of files on memory to help accelerate the login process.

Another new feature that will be included in the iOS 9.3 update will be the “Classroom” app, aimed at helping teachers make sure that everyone is on track through Screen View (and ensuring that students are not using their iPads for their own entertainment purposes). Teachers will also get the ability to track a students’ progress, too.

Apple also considered the IT professional when launching iOS 9.3, too: they have made it easier to set up mass amounts of Apple IDs, adding accounts, and more all through Apple School Manager.

While some sources doubt the use of iPads in the classroom, a recent report by education giant Pearson shows that students want to see more tech in their classrooms. In the report, 51% of students thought their school should be providing them with tablets, and 89% said tablets make learning more fun.

This update from Apple will put them in direct competition with Google and their Chromebooks, which were also readily adopted by educational programs. And hopefully these features will help to boost Apple’s share of the education market, which currently rests at only 24%.

Learn More: 5 Entertaining and Educational Apple TV Apps for Kids