Greenwich University forks out £90,000 so students can have iPads

The University of Greenwich has forked out a whopping £90,000 so that all its first-year science students can have an iPad.

The university says that it has spent so much because the iPads will help students' engagement and involvement in their subject. 

Professor Martin Snowden, Dean of the university's school of science, says that the project will give his students a vital edge not only in their studies, but also in the jobs market. "We're committed to providing students with a first-class experience during their time at Greenwich, and innovative learning and teaching is right at the top of the agenda. Students are gaining great proficiency in using cutting-edge technology right from day one, which is all part of bringing out their full potential," he says.

"One of the aims of the scheme is also to bridge the divide between the digital world of employers and the traditional learning we do in the labs, ensuring they will be equipped with the right digital and technical skills for the workplace. I'm sure the type of skills our students are honing now on their iPads will prove highly attractive to employers."

Leah Kent, who is studying Forensic Science with Criminology at Greenwich, says: "Using the iPads at university is a fantastic way of keeping up with modern technology. Using iPads in labs is very convenient too and keeps all our work and results together".

The project is managed by the university's Educational Development Unit. Earlier this year Dr Mark Kerrigan, from the unit, was part of the university team receiving a national award from Google and the Association of Learning Technology for creating a new online tool to support teaching, learning and assessment.

Dr Kerrigan says: "Using tools and apps they have chosen, learning in the laboratory becomes more personalised and students can also take on the roles of mentor and teacher – essential skills of the Greenwich Graduate. It also allows us to develop and integrate employability skills and create a culture of technological excellence."

The School of Science runs a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes, offering teaching from world-class professors, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and excellent links to industry.

To find out more: www.gre.ac.uk/about/schools/science, email courseinfo@greenwich.ac.uk or call 020 8331 9000.