University Journalism School "Requires" iPhone, iPod touch

Amazon.com probably would prefer something different: although the Kindle DX has been introduced as an e-reading device for both newspapers and textbooks, the University of Missouri Journalism School seems to be pushing incoming students toward the iPod touch and iPhone as a recommended device, instead.

It should be noted that reports are that the devices are required, but in fact, they are not required per se, but listed as such so it can be paid for with financial aid.

Brian Brooks, associate dean of the journalism school said:

“The reason we put required on it is to help the students on financial need. If it’s required, it can be included in your financial need estimate. If we had not required it, they wouldn’t be able to do that.”

In fact, the use of the devices would be not for textbooks, but for downloading and listening to lectures. That can be done via a computer, so there's no real necessity for the device.

And of course, University of Missouri isn't involved in the textbook trials being launched this fall; that's limited to Arizona State University, Case Western Reserve University, Princeton University, Reed College, and Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia.