I’m very lucky; I have two interns from Abbey Park High School. Both are young, enthusiastic and want to learn more about journalism. As a journalist myself, I was delighted to put Greg Thomson and Justin Harrigan to work. I asked them to write a short piece on the type of device they brought to the office for their on-line communication. Greg brought an iPod and Justin brought a Mac. They completed their first assignment and it’s included below – congratulations to both Greg and Justin, the articles are well written and informative. Watch for their next assignment!
- Donna
iPad 2 a revolutionary device
Suitable for all ages and interests
By Greg Thomson
I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first when the iPad 2 was released. I questioned whether it offered many technological advancements that were overlooked in the first generation. Prior to even picking up the device, I disregarded the fancy, innovative commercials and concluded that the iPad 2 was a larger version of an iPod Touch, which I already owned and had no use for its considerably larger twin.
Little did I know, the iPad 2 is a revolutionary, practical computing device made for people of all ages and interests. Whether you are a middle school student who plays games, such as the popular Angry Birds series or World Series Table Tennis, or a 20-something year old DJ needing a powerful mixing program to make tunes, the iPad is made for you. Hey, even a doctor can view ultra sound images on this portable device.
When my Dell Inspiron laptop crashed after only three years of use (listen up Dell), I moved all my files to the iPad without a hitch. I’m now able to complete all of my word processing and PowerPoint creations directly on the device for essays, school assignments, posters and resumes.
“iPad 2 is a revolutionary, practical computing device made for people of all ages and interests”
Like many other Canadian teens, I am passionate about hockey and cannot go ten feet without being in tune with the latest scores and statistics. There are dozens of Apps, not only for hockey, but almost anything imaginable, including an extensive collection of music and video libraries – all created for efficient and easy use. I’m also able to connect with my friends through Email, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Skype. Now I can never miss a beat and be more informed on a regular basis.
When comparing the first and second generation, I found there to be a tremendous improvement in the screen quality, camera capability and App evolvement. Unlike the newly released Blackberry Playbook, the iPad is more user friendly and provides a more enjoyable experience for the consumer.
Apple has always been a foreword thinker in the world of technology and they didn’t fail to amaze me with the release of the iPad 2. It has made everything that much easier and more efficient, whether I am completing my school work or watching the latest episode of The Office.
Join the revolution.
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Mac vs. PC
By Justin Harrigan
I had to make the decision between a PC or a Mac computer. At first glance, I didn’t think there was much of a difference because most laptops can perform the exact same functions, and execute identical projects.
Before I even considered buying a new computer, I made sure I knew everything there was to know about both types of laptops before proceeding. I ignored all of the competitive commercials on TV between Mac and PC and, instead went straight to the store and talked to sales associates for both Mac and PC. Even when visiting the store, the environment within Apple was unforgettable. The people in the store were all positive and happy to assist me with my inquiries.
“The battery life on a Mac computer is longer than on a PC computer”
When comparing the two, I had to review the characteristics of both and determine which was more beneficial for my learning and enjoyment. Making the decision was not an easy one for me.
When I made the decision, I chose a Mac computer for many different reasons. First it’s an “Apple” product; it’s my opinion, this means it is higher quality then other brands. I noticed that with an Apple product the speed had an enormous difference compared to my old laptop. This gives me the cutting edge when it comes to completing homework or social networking.
The battery life on my Mac computer is longer than on a PC. I notice that Macs are inaccessible to all viruses regardless of how you use your computer; this is a major factor when it comes to saving all my school projects without the risk of losing them.
My Mac really has an effect on the way I perform, and I have loved it since the day I purchased it. It does everything I need it to; from playing games to creating Powerpoint presentations. I encourage everyone to buy a Mac computer!
