A lack of choice is resulting in parents in Ireland overpaying for their children's ebook education, it has been suggested.

Don Myers, President of the National Parents Council Post Primary, explained schools are insisting that pupils use over-priced iPads, even though there are cheaper tablet devices available that deliver the same ebooks, the Irish Independent reports.

More than 20,000 students are being assigned tablets for digital learning purposes this year, with over 100 of the 730 secondary schools in Ireland encouraging this approach.

Mr Myers noted: "Schools are specifying iPads, which cost up to €500 before [you buy] ebooks ... I'm aware of other companies offering ebook solutions on Android devices for just €200."

He claimed many people do not understand that there are cheaper alternatives to the iPad that students can use for the same purposes, adding that while the Apple device is undoubtedly a good product, its high price means it is unsuitable for education.  

Written by Donal Walsh

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