Representatives from Apple presented Arkansas State University with a special recognition. A-State’s First Year Experience Program earned recognition as an Apple Distinguished Program. The First Year Experience Program requires that all incoming freshman receive iPads for use in the classroom.
For the past two years, all incoming freshman at Arkansas State have participated in a FYE course entitled “Making Connections,” establishing the course as a requirement in all undergraduate programs. All course materials - from textbooks and additional readings to classroom assignments and interaction - are created with digital tools optimized for iPad. Freshman Sean Siler says the program is great.
“I was a lot more comfortable coming to Arkansas State knowing that I already was more familiar with the iPad,” said Siler. He stated that he used the iPad for every class that he was in.
Sophomore Crosby Hendrix says he still uses his iPad every day, and loves the fact that he can use e-books as well as keep everything organized through the iPad.
“I like it a whole lot because of how organized I can be through using the iPad. I also enjoy having all of the e-books, PowerPoints, and everything I need all in one small space. This prevents me from carrying heavy books to class.”
Arkansas State University required all first year students to bring an iPad to class in the fall of 2013.
