To e-book or not?

Of late, especially with the announcement of the iPad, there are several discussions on whether e-books (or for that matter e-textbooks) should be introduced in the classroom. For instance, in this article; the future of textbooks is discussed; while another article here provides a more balanced view of the advantages and disadvantages.

Some agree that e-textbooks will really allow learning to come alive; imagine when you are on the topic of tropical rainforest and right there, on your e-textbook, you will be able to activate a video that will show you the rainforest right there in the classroom.

Some disagree as they think that using e-textbooks readers will distract students in the classroom. In fact, not using e-textbooks will encourage students to get up and conduct their own research, instead of having research conducted for them.

Do share your thoughts with us on e-textbooks:
- What are your thoughts on this?
- What are the advantages (or disadvantages) of using it in the classroom?
- Are you an educator, student, or parent?

Thank you.