Dutch 'Steve Jobs Schools' Are Trying To Revolutionize Education Through iPad Learning

Are iPads the future of education? The Dutch think so.

Seven "Steve Jobs Schools" opened in the Netherlands this week, giving each student an iPad instead of textbooks to encourage individualized learning and, potentially, replace traditional teachers. The initiative is run by O4NT, a Dutch foundation advocating a one-on-one student to iPad education model to cultivate individual strengths and prepare children for a future supported by technology.

Various apps have been developed to help facilitate this new style of learning, including Tiktik sCoolTool — which manages a student's schedule and assignments — and sCoolProjects — which allows students to work on group research projects. Parents and teachers will also be able to follow students through the iDesk Learning Tracker.

One major shift under O4NT's system is the role of teachers. According to the press release from O4NT, "teachers will no longer simply convey knowledge to a group of children; they will be transformed into coaches that support children with their individual and group projects."

Additionally, because the student's educational resources will be available 24/7, parents will be able to determine their child's school hours and vacations.

Check out these photos to see how the new Steve Jobs Schools are using iPads to change education: