By Cam Christoff, Contributing Writer
Gone are the days of paper and pen notetaking as more college students opt for computers and new tech gadgets to enhance their learning experience. Saint Leo University students rely on these technologies to complete assignments, take notes, and chat with their friends.
“I use my Apple Watch for exercise and meditation. It really helps to take a break throughout the day and just take a few breaths,” said Sheyenne Boerker, a graduate student at Saint Leo.
With the new technology used to create Apple Watches, the watch can be used to track your heart rate and blood oxygen levels. It also tracks when you have been sitting down for too long and alerts you to stand up. The Apple Watch can be purchased online through Apple’s website.
Geovanny Hillis, a senior studying digital communications, has all his gadgets at hand during his classes to optimize the best learning experience.
“I use my iPad and Apple Pencil to take notes in class,” said Hillis. “On days where I need to complete assignments, I bring my laptop in order to create documents, presentations, and do some video editing.”
The latest iPad allows for easy notetaking for college students. It is equipped with storage starting at 64GB, a new ultra-wide front camera, and an A13 Bionic chip that prevents lagging and makes graphics and applications more responsive when using multiple apps at once.
The Apple Pencil works with the iPad as a wireless stylus pen that allows users to draw, take notes, or use their iPad freely. The Apple Pencil itself has tilt and pressure sensitivity, which is perfect for students who are studying graphic design so that they can get accurate strokes on their canvas. The Apple Pencil also has a magnetic attachment that attaches right onto the iPad to prevent you from losing it.
While preparing for midterm and final exams, students like Hailey Latlief, a junior studying multimedia management, are set on having their technology with them to study.
“My computer is the most helpful tech gadget for exams as it holds all of my important files and study guides,” said Latlief.
Similarly to Latlief, Kenzie Ferrell, a junior studying digital communication, mentioned that she uses multiple tech gadgets to complete assignments and guide her study sessions.
“I use my phone, laptop, and television the most,” said Ferrell. “I get a lot of my homework done on my laptop and use all three to play music to help me study.”
Many Saint Leo students choose Apple as their laptop brand, as most of the computers used at the school are MacBooks. College students can get the MacBook and other Apple products at a discount with the Apple education pricing.