The iPad is replacing textbooks in some of the Creative Communications courses at Red River College. (Google Street View)

Students in some Red River College courses will have lighter backpacks this year as they trade their textbooks for technology.

At one time, cell phones and personal computers were a big no-no in the classroom but now, not only are they welcome — they are mandatory in some Creative Communications courses at the Winnipeg college.

'It's a necessity in the communications business now, so to not have it, I think, would be far worse.'—Instructor Kenton Larsen

Instructor Kenton Larsen said students in his second-year advertising class will be equipped with Apple iPads, while those in the course's first year are required to have an Apple iPhone or a Blackberry.

"It's a necessity in the communications business now, so to not have it, I think, would be far worse," said Larsen.

"To have a student leave our program and say, 'you didn't teach me about this and I don't know how this works,' just isn't acceptable. It's the next wave."

The College is paying for eight iPads that will be shared among 16 students.

"This is a test. We are going to work [Creative Communications students] with graphic design students to produce an e-publication," Larsen said.

Second-year student Jennifer Hanson likes the move.

"I think it will put me ahead of the game and it's exciting to learn something new," she said.

'I think it will put me ahead of the game and it's exciting to learn something new.'—Jennifer Hanson, student

Students have to buy their own iPhone or Blackberry, which most have no problem with.

They say it's a good deal because they no longer have to purchase two heavy and expensive textbooks, which are even more expensive than the phones.

"It'll save in the long run on text books and not having to lug them around," said student David Hollier.

While there's no denying technology is playing a larger role in today's classrooms, the president of the Manitoba Teachers' Society says technology will never fully replace textbooks.

"Teaching and learning is intensely human and it's that face-to-face interaction that is the most important part of education said society president Pat Isaak.

"I don't see a day when books will disappear. I think they are just such a tangible part of teaching and learning."