I've had my iPad for a couple of weeks now and I have to admit that I pretty much love this device. Granted, there are some limitations. For example, the Apple VGA connector doesn't actually project the screen of my iPad only specific apps is a limitation in the classroom. I would love to be able to project my iPad screen to my class for demonstrations, but right now I can't.
However, I find myself using my iPad more than my MacBook Pro. It is the device that I grab to check my mail, surf the web, play a game, and so on. It turns on in the blink of an eye and is quick to render a web page or load an app.
The battery life is great. I can use it for a couple of days and then plug it in at night and it's ready to go in the morning. The size is perfect. I haven't gotten a case to mine yet, but I think I will actually like it even better with a little heft around it. Plus I'll likely feel a bit safer with then too. This this is fragile.
I love the display. It is bright and clear. I have no problems reading news reports and articles on it. I do find myself longing for some cursor keys for simple edits, but I'm sure I'll get more comfortable with time.
One other thing that will come with time is the ability to print directly from the iPad. Right now it really doesn't work. There are some third party apps that make the claim, but none of the reviews are supporting the claims. As Apple begins to see the really instructional and educational power of the iPad, I'm certain both the projection and printing issues will be resolved.
For now, all I can say is I see the iPad as a game changer in education. It is relatively low cost, has great battery life, and educators could develop content specific apps pretty easily. Additionally, with Pages, Keynote, and Numbers, it can be used in many traditional ways as a content development tool. I'm excited to see where this product might take K12 and Higher Education.
