Yes, they are different. The iPad requires considerably more power than provided by iPod chargers or the USB port on the computer. "...anyone have any thoughts?" What thoughts did you need?
The only way they are different is in the amount of power they can provide. You can use an iPad charger to charge an iPod and I believe that most iPod chargers will charge an iPad.
The iPad charger can provide a lot more power (10W), and can charge the iPad faster. If you try to charge an iPad with an iPod charger, it will charge slowly.
However, an iPad charger works perfect with both devices. It is the fastest way to charge an iPad, and it will charge an iPod as well. I don't believe the iPod charges any faster with an iPad charger since it can't make use of the extra power the iPad charger provices.