Analyst Report A1

Analysis of Real-World Learning Technology: Learn Pad


As an educational venture analyst in the market examining educational solutions for my own students, I decided to investigate the area of instructional delivery via tablets within the classroom. In selecting the Learn Pad as a viable option, I wanted to provide investors with the right information to make a wise decision for my students and also for my school board. As an Educational Venture Analyst, attached is the presentation I would provide potential investors and convince them that this is currently the best option on the market for 21st century learning via tablets.

Purpose of PresentationPurpose of Presentation



The Learn Pad has been recognized as the “Best Digital Device” for 2013, and has been developed by Educational Resources. Their slogan or motto is “Purpose Built for Education”, and has been available across US, Canada, Latin and South America and the Caribbean.

Recognition and MottoRecognition and Motto

Multiple award winning product: Check it out here! http://www.learnpad.com/

Multiple award winning product: Check it out here! http://www.learnpad.com/

http://www.learnpad.co/




Purpose within the 21st Century MarketplacePurpose within the 21st Century Marketplace

• The product addresses the educational need for individualized lessons and highly interactive activities focusing on 21st learning models.

• The product offers a dynamic, hands-on alternative to traditional learning models, and focuses on delivering content with increased stimulation

• Currently, this is one of the best tablet solutions on the market due to its versatility, functionality and dedicated use for learning purposes.

• This is the only tablet on the market that has been strictly created for educational purposes.

Why Learn Pad? What needs does it address?Why Learn Pad? What needs does it address?

21st Century Educational Marketplace Solution 21st Century Educational Marketplace Solution

• The Solution is an IPAD type of tablet, however it departs from the traditional type of tablet, in that it is an “out of the box” solution for classrooms

• It delivers three components:

1)A Tablet-Cloud Based Management Portal2) A Content Store with millions of applications3) Physical Tablet

• The tablet has been recognized as the “Best Digital Device” for 2013, and is available in the US, Canada, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

What is the Solution?What is the Solution?

Hard Facts Hard Facts

• The ER Learn Pad is available for $299.00, and carries no access, subscription or renewal costs.

• The Learn Pad comes in a bundle package for $359.95, and include the Core Tablet, a Bluetooth Keyboard, and a Nylon Folio Case.

• By combining these add-ons the pad itself is set an excellent price; additional discounts may apply when buying bundles for 30 or more students and for entire school/school boards

• Sales team is available for consultation to discuss further reductions in price, and steeper discounts.

PricePrice

• The Learn Pad contains a classroom pack that is reduced about $3000.00, containing 30 Learn Pads, 32 Bay Tablet Charging Carts, 30 Nylons Cases, 30 Screen Protectors and a Classroom License Package.

• Accessories may be added for an additional $599.95 .

Price: Marketing Enhancement

Price: Marketing Enhancement


What makes the Learn Pad different from other competing brands?

What makes the Learn Pad different from other competing brands?

DifferentiationDifferentiation

PurposePurpose

Supervision

Supervision

Professional Development

Professional Development

Easy Implementatio

n

Easy Implementatio

n

Affordability

Affordability

ContentContent

HardwareHardware


• The Learn Pad is different from other pads on the market, in that it provides ten essential features that are not available in other pads at the moment in the marketplace:

• 1) Purpose – The Pad is built with a purpose, solely for education and can be used as a tool that is strictly student focused.

•2) Supervision and Control – The pad is controlled and features may be activated and deactivated by the teacher. The teacher can manage the content delivery, and lock down features to ensure students remain on task.



• 3) Affordability – The cost of the tablet is very affordable, in that there are no subscription fees, installation costs or maintenance costs.

•4) Professional Development – Development and learning opportunities are included in part of the package, and teachers get access to multiple professional development modules (additional features)

•5) Easy Implementation – Implementation is easy, and provides easy set up in an areas with wireless access to the Internet.



• 6) Content Variety – The type of content displayed is multiple with support for Power Point presentation, worksheets, and adapts for previous curriculum that is already digital. The integration feature with previous digital curriculum is quite impressive and distinct.

•7) Dynamic hardware and add-ons – The tablet comes with a variety of add-ons and expandable memory options allowing flexibility for upgrading. In addition, accessories can be purchased that are tailored to the tablet and provide an increased level of customization.



Their website is the main marketing stream, containing comprehensive resources that provide users with a better understanding of the product.

Web link: http://www.learnpad.co/

A simple design allows users to navigate and learn quickly about the product, with a View Demo button, Request More Info, and a Request a Quote.

In clicking on certain areas, PDF resources and PDF marketing collateral may be accessed and provided to potential consumers/buyers. This will be helpful for school boards to understand product use and advantages.

MarketingMarketing



MarketingMarketing

The PDF fact sheet offers a unique cross between information/educational-training material. In addition it serves as a powerful marketing tool, elaborating on the functional uses for educators.

Videos on the website are available that support the Learn Pad’s differentiated features and informs users on the problems with buying other tablets in the marketplace.

The product is marketed on this idea of simplicity, similar to Apple products and rivaling their competitive advantage.

The idea behind this is: 1) Unpack 2) Connect 3) Learn


MarketingMarketing

There is no set-up guide, complicated instructions or user manual to follow, and may be easily distributed to a class and activated.


CompetitionCompetition

The Learn Pad feature multiple competitive advantages over similar marketplace tablet products; these include:

•Access to Flash Based Content• Integration of Existing Web-Based Programs

• Application Delivery • Application Expansion

•Networking Sharing Options

What makes the Learn Pad a strong competitor against other brands, such as Apple, Samsung, or Sony tablets?

What makes the Learn Pad a strong competitor against other brands, such as Apple, Samsung, or Sony tablets?



1) Access to Flash Based Content – The main limitation of its leading competitor (Apple tablets) is that 95% of current curriculum is written in Adobe Flash, and Apple does not support this. There is a move, however towards non-flash based learning but that will take several years (20+) since it compromises effective SEO/web referencing.

2) Integration of Existing Web-based Programs – existing web based programs may run on the tablet, permitting teachers to incorporate and continue with previous material/programming that is web-based. Safari has known to have issues with access certain web-based information in its browser.



3) Application Delivery – Unlike other tablets where programs are manually installed on each device, the central portal permits teachers to upload content with the touch of a button to all tablets in use, or just to select certain students, differentiating difficulty of material with various groups.

4) Application Expansion – Although other tablets may have access to educational resources, the Learn Pad has a database of applications of more than half a million strictly for education sorted by themes, subject areas, and levels. The download is quick and easy, a one-touch activation.



5) Network Share Access – The tablet permits access to previous networks that are established, and materials in school networks can be transferred directly to other tablets.


Educational AdvantagesEducational Advantages

Let’s review the five features that deliver a competitive advantage:

•Access to Flash Based Content• Integration of Existing Web-Based Programs

• Application Delivery • Application Expansion

•Networking Sharing Options

What advantages from an educational perspective do its features provide potential educators?

What advantages from an educational perspective do its features provide potential educators?


AdvanAdvan

1) Access to Flash Based Content – With access to Flash based content, teachers may now access the majority of e-learning sites, and e-learning, interactive application that are written in Flash Action Script, by developers who have created programs using Adobe Suite. Until interactive programmers move away from this over the next 20 years, (it is a well known fact that Flash is detrimental to SEO), there will cross over in education. Educators can select from static web sites to dynamic and cross over easily without worrying about malfunction.



AdvanAdvan

2) Integration of Existing Web-based Programs – Teachers are using more web-based programs for grade calculation, grade entry, LMS systems such as Blackboard, Moodle, etc. and as web-based programs they will not be able to differentiate and determine why their LMS is malfunctioning. The tablet will streamline this process and permit access, insofar as the LMS or web-based program can adapt to tablet dimensions (Programming point).

3) Application Delivery – The application delivery is designed for educators. Teachers may select which applications to install on selected student pads, and delivery content according to difficulty, level, subject matter and content.



AdvanAdvan

3) Application Delivery (continued) – The ability to delivery diversified content is important in learning models prevalent in schools today. This will permit teachers/educators to manage their student learning in split level classes, and multiple subjects.

4) Application Expansion – The ability to expand programming options and to sort program options by level, theme, and subject is valuable for all educators/teachers. Educators can customize their courses by selecting the applications that suit their needs most.



AdvanAdvan

5) Network Sharing Availability - In sharing resources from already established networks, teachers/educators may easily integrate materials from past courses, and create new courses with both sets of material. Educators who have archived valuable learning materials in networks may add this to their current program, and create streamlined courses for the entire school/school board.


Learn Pad versus AppleLearn Pad versus Apple

AdvanAdvan

Here is an actual breakdown of why Learn Pad is better that

Apple products for EDUCATION:

Although Apple products have a strong market share in the tablet area due to their reliability, ease of use, flexibility – they do not provide educational solutions that are VIABLE, COST-EFFECTIVE, and SIMPLE.

They have not pioneered the way in the educational forum, and do not present a solution that is exclusively designed for learning in the classroom environment.

Competitive advantageCompetitive advantage

Link that shows best educational tablets: http://list.ly/list/2eX-the-best-tablets-for-teachers

Link that shows best educational tablets: http://list.ly/list/2eX-the-best-tablets-for-teachers

http://list.ly/list/2eX-the-best-tablets-for-teachers




Learn Pad versus Apple Pad

Learn Pad versus Apple Pad

AdvanAdvan


Learn Pad Apple PadContains a cloud-based delivery system for all applications from a central portal (Teacher controlled)

Applications are installed manually on all pads, and teacher has no control over what is installed

Applications themselves may be cloud-based

Applications are located on the hard drive, taking up valuable space

No limits provided there is connection to internet

Hard drive limitations even with connection to internet

Customizable interface, network sharing features, and managing safety with browser compliance

No customizable interface, network sharing features do not exist, and browser may be unsafe

Learn Pad versus LaptopLearn Pad versus Laptop

AdvanAdvan


Learn Pad LaptopSmaller, with over 16 hours of battery life

Larger, with 6 hours of battery life

Out of the box – plug and play Many laptops require extensive configuration

Lockdown features for security, no configuration or networking required

No lockdown features on individual laptops, unless specially networked

1.2 LBS 3 LBS (lightest)

AC Adaptor or Phone charger can charge battery

Special adaptor required on some models

Adaptable to all Android applications available on phones

Applications cannot be accessed

Learn Pad versus LaptopLearn Pad versus Laptop

AdvanAdvan


Learn Pad LaptopExpandable storage Not all laptops are expandable

Rear and Front facing cameras Front facing camera only

Quiet with no moving internal parts

Moving internal parts with non SSHD models. Costly! $$

Easy fit on a desk, space saving Not the most space saving on small desks

Superb portability Not always portable (heavy), awkward in bags, etc.

TestimonialsTestimonials

“The Learn Pad is a perfect solution for one-to-one computing in our school district. We had two major concerns when considering tablets: application management and Flash support. The Learn Pad operating system has all the controls we need for managing and delivering applications and instructional materials easily; and with the new dashboard, we can remotely view, configure and manage devices. Many of our instructional websites are Flash-based, so we were excited to see that the Learn Pad supported FLASH. The performance of the Learn Pad XD running Flash based application is exceptional and Learn Pad support is first-class …” Kate Fisher –Technology Coordinator Stockbridge Valley Central School

TestimonialsTestimonials

Awards and Special Recognition: - Learn Pad wins BETT 2013 Best Digital Device award. It has been summed up as “This is the way tablets should be managed in a school environment. A great deal of thought has gone into the design to reflect the needs of schools and how they operate. Excellent online management systems provided and very easy and quick to use. Excellent price. Impressive and convincing testimonials.” (Judges at the BETT show).

As of March 2013 – The Federal Way Public Schools in Iowa rolled out 452 Learn Pads to students in the spring of 2013. FWPS is the 8th largest school district with an enrollment of 21,554 across 37 schools and 2,584 staff members. Dan Brown, Instructional Technologist Specialist states: “The Learn Pad is a powerful device for teachers and students not only because it allows for easy access of electronic learning application and resources, but is also easily customizable by the teacher. The teacher has complete control over the device, allowing them to modify their instruction for individual student learning needs without waiting for third parties.”

Learn Pad Investment ValueLearn Pad Investment Value

AdvanAdvan

The following sections provide detailed information regarding

the investment value of the product. They have been analyzed

according to the following areas:

• Credibility of Team and Organization • Venture Concept• Marketability/Sustainability• Market Share & Competitive Edge• Market Readiness

Detailed Analysis and Ratings

Detailed Analysis and Ratings


AdvanAdvan

The website is mainly devoted to their feature product, and information on Educational Resources is provided on the website. The organization is located in Illinois, and have established partnerships with various educational tech companies in other parts of the US including AXI Educational Solutions, CCS Presentation Systems, Creative Image Technologies, EDU365 Group, EDUSPARK and more. These partners are permitted to sell the product, may comment and support its learning goals. There are approximately 20-30 partners, demonstrating important links established in the community. The organization has created a voice for itself over 25 years with teams of software developers, instructional designers, sales, service, and classroom specialists.

Credibility of Team and Organization

Credibility of Team and Organization


The product is original in its design and purpose as a leading tablet strictly for educational use. The organization has established a product that is engaging, simple, safe, and compatible with existing resources and software. Students have extreme versatility with the product when learning, and the pad is dedicated to educational tasks without additional clutter from non-educational programs. Already developed and distributed in several countries around the world, its lightweight, versatile, and portable features make it ideal for distribution and development. Tablets are simply not designed for education only, and Apple does not provide the same level of instruction and ease of use the Learn Pad does. With numerous awards and testimonials in the educational sphere, there is no doubt this product is strong enough for further development.

Venture ConceptVenture Concept


Considering that the Learn Pad is competing with multiple pads such as Lenovo, Google Nexus, Nook HD, Microsoft Surface Windows, Kindle Fire HD, Samsung Galaxy 10, and Sony Experia S, it is still the only pad on the market that is designed for educational purposes permitting students to focus on learning. The pad does compete in the market place with other pads that are quite impressive in specifications, but the pad is the best option for providing meaningful learning solutions. In terms of its power, it is quite impressive itself and most attractive is the price point for schools and school boards. Schools need to be more aware of this option for their students, and with a tremendous advantage over Apple in several areas, the Learn Pad is a key competitor for students in K-12, as well as special education. The competitive features are listed in the presentation, and make it more a more viable investment than Apple products for education, due to it differentiating features. The most important of these is the ability to play Flash videos which 95 percent of all e-learning software online is composed of.

Marketability/SustainabilityMarketability/Sustainability


Even this website lists all the tablets in the marketplace that teachers use and shows the Learn Pad as the second competing against the Apple Pad: • http://list.ly/list/2eX-the-best-tablets-for-teachers

Other websites attesting to the Learn Pad’s strength include:• http://www.edudemic.com/best-education-technology/the-best-tablets-for-education/

• http://www.teachthought.com/technology/learnpad-vs-ipad-crowded-education-table/

•http://tabtimes.com/feature/education/2013/04/04/5-school-worthy-ipad-alternatives-education

Market Share/Competitive Edge



http://www.edudemic.com/best-education-technology/the-best-tablets-for-education/

http://www.edudemic.com/best-education-technology/the-best-tablets-for-education/


• http://www.emergingedtech.com/2013/08/learnpad-a-tablet-designed-specifically-for-educational-use/

• http://edresources.com/assets/blog/LearnPad_vs_iPad.pdfhttp://www.agent4change.net/bett-week/learning-platforms/1846-ipad-rival-with-better-price-and-flexibility-learnpad2.html

Marketability/SustainabilityMarketability/SustainabilityMarket Share/Competitive Edge



The organization has been providing solutions since 1985, and the product has been around for the last three years gaining substantial ground in North America, Europe, South America and the Caribbean. With a stronger marketing program, other than their comprehensive website, the organization can target more school boards and regions across the continent. Sales contacts and travelling representatives may be an excellent idea to communicate and promote the product across regions where teachers and resources are lacking. Considering its unique design and placement in the marketplace with distinct features, this product can be expanded and distributed with the right investment. Additional information may be requested on the website, and the company may be contacted to receive more detailed financial information. With plenty of online established resources and content libraries, there is already an invested group of individuals creating these applications solely for educational devices such as the Learn Pad. Without doubt I would recommend this product for further investment.

Market ReadinessMarket Readiness


FINAL RATINGSFINAL RATINGS

Here are the final ratings for the five areas in terms of investment value.

A high rating indicates a strong assessment and support for investment decision. A lower rating indicates areas that need improvement, however more direct information including detailed figures may be necessary between investor and owner. Ratings are out of 10.


FINAL RATINGSFINAL RATINGS

AREA OF ANALYSIS OVERALL RATING

Credibility of Team/Org 8/10

Venture Concept 8/10

Marketability/Sustainability 8.5/10


9.5/10

Market Readiness 9/10

Learn Pad Personal ReflectionLearn Pad Personal Reflection

Upon reflecting on the Learn Pad, I realized that as an educator or in a position of investment, I would purchase or fund this device without reservation. This is an excellent product that has been demonstrated and rated through several testimonials, awards, and video examples. I would consider the product as an advanced “Educational” version of the Apple I pad that provides the same level of simplicity, technological advancement, performance, excellence in graphics, and user friendly navigation. If you compare the two products side by side, without doubt as an educator the Learn Pad is the better choice for a student population. Apple has a strong marketing campaign, and has built a brand and reputation for quality however its price point is still very high and never comes down. Often school districts succumb to the marketing of Apple products for Education, as the name penetrates all domains, and attempts to provide solutions in various industries.

Learn Pad Personal Reflection (Continued)

Learn Pad Personal Reflection (Continued)

The reality is that Learn Pad excels in its dedicated use for Education, and ability to access Flash, Android, and existing web applications. Apple fails to provide users with versatility, and other tablets in the market do not meet the same quality standards. The Learn Pad is truly unique, and upon researching pads through numerous websites, online resources, it kept up coming as number two to the Apple Ipad (perhaps in quality), but often it was rated number one in education. It is important to give other products such as Learn Pad the chance and use it as an educator/administrator within a learning environment. Without this, it is very difficult to understand the power of the product. Apple may be relying on its expensive marketing strategies, but if you examine its use in Education, it is still very limited and maintains an “all-inclusive” design. Specificity is the key, and Learn Pad provides this, understanding very carefully what educators want and need for their students. .

Analyst Report A1

Education

Transcript of Analyst Report A1