imho the iPad

+ Would be useful if you need an electronic clipboard

+ Would be a cool coffee-table device for webzine browsing

+ Would make you the envy of classmates/co-workers

otoh,

- It's awkward to use portably in conjunction with actual paperwork

- Can't leave it unattended, just as inconvienient as a regular notebook computer

- Since I can't carry it in my pocket, might as well get a real portable computer