The Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education and the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Oklahoma have been recognized by Apple Inc. for their comprehensive integration of Apple-inspired technology throughout their curriculum, The Oklahoman reported.

The two schools were recognized as Apple Distinguished Programs for the 2013-2015 academic years. This honor is reserved for academic units that meet criteria for educational excellence and leadership.

"The incorporation of technology in the classroom changed how students learn and has taught them a new way to engage their own with students when they enter the teaching profession," Gregg Garn, dean of Jeannine Rainbolt College of Education, told The Oklahoman. "It's also influenced the way faculty interacts with students. Faculty members have integrated iPads into their teaching and lesson plans, allowing for more time in the classroom and laboratory for discussion, student engagement and hands-on experiences."

The education college recently embarked on a one-to-one iPad initiative where students enrolled in their undergraduate program each received an iPad at the beginning of their first semester. Is students successfully completed the degree program, they would be allowed to keep the device and the digital content "they created to use in their teaching careers," The Oklahoman reported.

Faculty members also received iPads and learned to incorporate the device into their teaching.

Students at the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication have used Apple hardware, software and servers to assist them in becoming "master storytellers," university officials said in a news release.

"Apple's transparent integration of software and hardware enables our students to focus on being creative and not on the software or equipment," Buddy Wiedemann, Gaylord College director of information technology, said in a statement.