IPAD

Amanda L. DarlingtonDiffusion & Integration of TechnologyEDUC 8841Walden University

WHAT IS AN IPAD?

The iPad is the first tablet computer developed by Apple Inc. Announced on January 27, 2010, it is part of a device category between a Smartphone and a laptop computer.

WHAT DOES AN IPAD PROVIDE TO EDUCATORS?

iPads allow teachers and student access to applications, software, and websites

iPads attracts 21st century learners who thrive on products that encourage creativity and hands-on learning

Upkeep, maintenance and initial purchase price of the iPad is minimal compared to the traditional alternatives of textbooks, paper, writing utensils, and desktop computers.

NEED:

Technology gap between laptops and mobile phones. What could bridge the two that could encompass the best of both worlds?

The need to blend recent advancements all into one product iPhone iPod The OS X operating system Gestures Sleek and smooth style of Apple

RESEARCH:

Head Honcho: Steve Jobs Apple developed a solution to this

problem Findings:

Create a larger platform Design a product that encompasses all the

computing benefits of the iPhone while keeping in mind how important portability is to the user.

DEVELOPMENT:

Developed by Apple, Inc. The iPad is similar in function to an iPod

touch, with the exception of the display area being four times the size.

Targeted Audience: Those considering buying the Amazon Kindle Frequent travelers Older generations Home theater gurus

COMMERCIALIZATION:

Production located in: Manufacturing: Designed by Apple in

California. Assembled in China. Apple does not disclose specific information regarding manufacturing.

Marketing:

TIMELINE OF COMMUNICATION CHANNELS OF THE INNOVATION-DECISION PROCESS:

Prior Conditions Before the release of iPad, teachers have used

textbooks, desktops, and laptops. Problems are: heavy textbooks, lack of portability

and user ability of desktops and laptops iPad offers solutions to these because most textbook

companies have now invested funds into applications for their texts to be accessed via the iPad, as well as, offering a highly portable and accessible device.

Most adults and students have access to other i-devices such as an ipod, itouch, or iphone and are familiar with how these devices operate.

STAGE I: KNOWLEDGE

Individual board members know via various routes

Characteristics of the Decision-Making Unit: Socioeconomic characteristics: middle and

upper class Personality variables: Various personality

types/traits Communication behavior: occurs via face

to face, email, text, phone, and delivered mail

STAGE II: PERSUASION

It is my hope that the board will develop a favorable attitude toward the iPad

Perceived Characteristics of the Innovation: Relative advantage: extremely advantageous for reasons

mentioned previously Compatibility: great for current and future users Complexity/Trialability: Teachers would need to be provided

with professional development opportunities to “play” and become comfortable with device.

Observability: once a small amount have been purchased, teachers will be able to share uses and designs with other teachers, administration, and board members in an effort to gain monies for additional purchases.

STAGE III: DECISION

When the board decides to approve and utilize the iPad, based on research, experiences, and observations (both inside and outside) of the classroom.

STAGE IV: IMPLEMENTATION

The iPad will be distributed to teachers who wish to design engaging, meaningful opportunities for students to ensure profound learning. These teachers will also be asked to provide professional development opportunities for other teachers who would like to integrate iPads into their classrooms.

STAGE V: CONFIRMATION

The board will review the decision and then decide either to purchase more iPads for classroom use or decide to use the funds for other endeavors.