Caption: Jimmy Blackler, from Normandale School, using one of the school’s new iPads.

As technology becomes an increasing part of everyday life for most of us, the humble abacus has understandably long been expelled from the classroom. But a technological boom in schools means that students can now put away their calculators in favour of iPads and iPod apps.

Pukerua Bay School assistant principal and former senior teacher at Muritai School Stephen Earnes says he believes the use of technology plays a vital part in the success of any classroom programme. “The educational gains are huge. More