BY LORI WILLIAMS

Special to The Pilot

Tablet computers are everywhere and come in a variety of brands and user interfaces.

According to a New York Times article published in March, the Apple iPad is by far the most popular to date. Many useful "apps," or software, are available for this device, and many of them are free to download.

Laura Todd, coordinator of computer training in the division of continuing education at Sandhills Community College, has been teaching courses to introduce the community to this popular technological trend. "What's an iPad" and "iPad 101" are two current offerings in continuing education at Sandhills.

"While the iPad is classified as a smart device, it is very different from the average desktop computer to which most people were introduced. The objective of the courses is to familiarize participants with the interface and, as other brands increase in popularity, we will work to meet those needs as well," says Todd.

Controlling 85 percent of the tablet market, Apple's introduction of the second generation iPad in a thinner, faster and lighter version of the first generation iPad made the Apple version even more competitive with rising models like Samsung and Motorola, according to the New York Times article.

Because of the diverse apps available to consumers, the iPad has become a popular device for those 65 and older. For instance, apps like Bingo, the Weather Channel, NPR, Scrabble, iBooks and Pandora make this device attractive to this age group. Additionally, Facetime, an exclusive Apple app, provides an opportunity for face-to-face communication with friends, children and grandchildren streaming over the Internet.

There are multiple accessories for the iPad making it even more attractive to consumers. Bluetooth keyboards enhance the portability of the device, adding to its allure. Having a much larger screen than the iPhone and iPod Touch, with the same useful phone and storage capacity, one might envision iPads becoming a hugely popular Christmas wish list item for all age groups.

"We anticipate that many work environments will supply employees with tablet computers, providing workers with mobility and increasing the need for our classes on an occupational level in the near future," says Todd.

To view the diverse computer training offerings, visit www.sandhills.edu/coned.