Consider this: Apple Learning Interchange (ALI) began in the 90s with about 30,000 users, sharing lesson plans and collaborating. ALI developed into what is now iTunes U, which features over 800 universities and organizations distributing content to potentially millions of users via iTunes software, including content from Michigan Association for Computer Users in Learning (MACUL) – MI Learning on iTunes U.The Apple name has become synonymous with education. A standard platform for the classroom, Jobs’ vision for the iPhone and iPad has revolutionized the potential for technology-driven learning while other companies have struggled to keep up. While his role at Apple has decreased, most likely due to health concerns, Jobs has assured his followers that he will continue to contribute to the company’s product development.
There is no telling if Apple will continue its prominence in the ed tech world or if it will succumb to competitors like ed tech giant Dell Inc. or Google – see: Chromebook. One thing is for sure, educational technology is enriched due to the efforts of Apple and similar companies. Websites, mobile phone applications, and Internet learning tools are everywhere you look. While some may not be worthy of much attention, an open market with high demand will inevitably deliver great results.
