Eleven so-called “Steve Jobs schools” will open in the Netherlands in August. The schools will serve 1,000 students, and will use Apple’s iPad as their primary educational tool.
The unique concept will ditch strict schedules, formal classes, seating charts, and other longtime staples of the education experience, according to Spiegel. Instead, children ages 4 through 12 located in the town of Breda will use an iPad to access learning programs of their choosing, and complete them at their own pace.
Teachers will assume the job of a “learning coach.” Since the entire curriculum is digital, students will be able to work on their lessons wherever they are.
“The iPad keeps teachers and parents constantly informed about what children are doing, what they have learned, and how they are progressing,” Marco Evers reported. “If a math app is neither enjoyable nor successful, the teacher simply orders another one. The supply of educational programs never runs dry in Apple’s online store.”
Core courses for students will include arithmetic, reading and text comprehension. Every six weeks the student’s individual curriculum will be decided upon by the student, their teachers, and parents.
There will be non-iPad related exercises and experiences, such as the typical playtime activities, including building, drawing, and getting physical exercise.
