Choosing the Right Tablet for High School Students: What to Consider

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around selecting the most suitable tablet for high school students, focusing on specifications that support note-taking, homework, and learning various subjects such as math and science. Participants share their preferences and experiences with different tablet models, considering factors like functionality, app availability, and personal needs.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses the need for a tablet that is responsive and suitable for studying subjects like Algebra, Calculus, Chemistry, and Physics.
  • Some participants recommend the Samsung tablet and the ASUS Eee Pad Transformer for their functionality and app availability.
  • Another participant mentions a preference for the iPad 3 due to an existing iTunes account, while also considering the ASUS for its value.
  • Concerns are raised about the iPad's functionality limitations compared to Android tablets.
  • One participant asserts that none of the tablets discussed would effectively support note-taking or equation writing.
  • Another participant highlights the educational design of the ASUS Transformer Prime as particularly beneficial for students.
  • There are mentions of personal experiences with older tablets, such as the HP Touchpad, and their capabilities.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of opinions regarding the best tablet choice, with some favoring Android devices like the ASUS Transformer and others leaning towards the iPad 3. There is no consensus on which tablet is definitively the best for the stated needs, and some participants challenge the effectiveness of the tablets mentioned for academic purposes.

Contextual Notes

Participants' recommendations depend on personal preferences, existing technology ecosystems (like iTunes), and specific academic needs. There are unresolved questions about the functionality of the tablets for tasks like note-taking and homework.

jbmiller
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Hey everyone,

Recently I've been looking into buying a tablet that would best fit my specifications. I thought this would be the best place to poke around and get more expertise opinions.

Basically I would be using the tablet for various things; notes, homework, writing math/physics equations, etc.

I'm in my freshman year of high school and I'm doing a lot of traveling this summer. I will need a tablet that has a good, responsive touchscreen, and that will allow me to study/self-learn Alg II, Pre-Calc/Calc, Chemistry (mabye), and Physics. I want to be well prepared and rather advanced when I enter my sophomore classes next year.

Not to mention learning Python, C, and Matlab.
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
Hey Mr. Miller, I'd suggest a samsung tablet.
 
Man chem is so hard!~!
 
Anything having android is good, as there are quite a few apps to learn stuff on like wolfram alpha etc. I'd probably go for the ASUS eee pad transformer. Another good option would be the Samsung galaxy 8.9 which has a small screen for better portability.
 
For learning Algebra and Calc, check out PatrickJMT.com. He makes tons of very helpful math video tutorials, makes learning the material very easy.

I have an ipad and would not recommend it just because it seams to be deliberately made with a lack in functionality so apple can profit more off of Itunes.
 
Well I wouldn't need it for apps, I will have all the textbooks I need.

I just need something that will allow me to take notes and do homework on, and something that will save my work. I really like the asus transformer or the samsung tablet because music could also be uploaded on to it. Not to mention it's multi-purpose even beyond what I'm seeking.
 
Ok, I think I might go with an Ipad 3. If anyone this this is a bad idea, please comment now.

My main reason for going with the Ipad 3 is because I already have a pretty extensive Itunes account, and that's really the only thing.

My other option would be the Asus eee pad Transformer, so if you thin the Asus would be a better fir with better apps to fit my needs than please let me know so.
 
Initially I did have Ipad in mind. Ipad 3 is amazing, but if you are considering value for money, Asus wins. Although, since you have a extensive Itunes account already, I believe going for Ipad would be the better choice.
 
  • #10
Infinitum said:
Initially I did have Ipad in mind. Ipad 3 is amazing, but if you are considering value for money, Asus wins. Although, since you have a extensive Itunes account already, I believe going for Ipad would be the better choice.

I'm not all that worried about money, thankfully, my parents are paying for it. And I just read up on the Ipad 3 and it looks to be a beast. They crammed in so much stuff to really push it, and it hardly gained any in a weight aspect. Can't wait for the new retina display. processor, RAM, and overall beauty of it!
 
  • #11
You know what's really awkward. My teacher has the same name as you and he's looking for a tablet.
 
  • #12
Hellohi said:
You know what's really awkward. My teacher has the same name as you and he's looking for a tablet.

Haha, which one is he thinking about getting?
 
  • #14
  • #15
Infinitum said:
Nice deal! I already have my old Asus and a HP touchpad, or I really would have gone for this one. Enjoy the beast! :wink:

HP touchpad? Hmm, never heard of it.

And I will enjoy it!

Thanks everyone for the help!
 
  • #16
jbmiller said:
HP touchpad? Hmm, never heard of it.

Its a rather less-known tablet brought in by HP and discontinued soon. The plus is they sold it dirt cheap (100 dollars a piece) but it barely has any support of any sort. Somehow, I got it to dual-boot android along with webOS and it works like a charm :smile:
 
Last edited:
  • #17
Infinitum said:
Its a rather less-known tablet brought in by HP and discontinued soon. The plus is they sold it dirt cheap (100 dollars a piece) but it barely has any support of any sort. Somehow, I got it to dual-boot android along with webOS and it works like a charm :smile:

Damn, sounds like a really good deal too me!
 
  • #19
My teachers still looking:p But maybe I could tell him to get this one!
 
  • #20
Ben Niehoff said:
You won't be able to take notes, write equations, or do homework on ANY of the tablets mentioned in this thread.

See this other, very similar thread:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=570967

I'm getting the Asus Transformer which uses the Android Market. I've looked at Android's apps and yes, they do have apps for my specific needs.
 
  • #21
The best tablet for students could be Asus Transformer Prime. It mainly designed for educational purposes enhancing the needs of the students.
 
  • #22
I think Samsung Tablet isi very great and can meet all of your demands.
 
  • #23
I don't know any best Tablet but the one that can perfect meet all my needs !
 
  • #24
What are your needs?
 

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