It is useful to consider the advantages that laptop computers provide in the learning environment, especially in comparison to desktop computers. Laptops portability helps students use technology. Laptops are lightweight and can operate on batteries. Laptops can be passed among students, moved around the classroom, carried in school and on field trips, and taken home. Laptops fit in backpacks and can be carried anywhere.
Laptops facilitate data sharing and processing by students.
Students can share a laptop and take turns to view, input, and analyze data. Students at different locations can interact through email or videoconferencing, using wireless connectivity among computers, or a modem. Laptops provide ready access to Internet resources, even in the field, using wireless remote access. The ability to process and graph data immediately allows students to check estimates and make decisions about the next step of an activity in the field or laboratory. The flexibility of laptops lets students take more ownership in learning ownership which is key to effective education and positive self-esteem.