The phenomenal success of Apple's iPad, now in version 2, has created a new breed of digital device users and generated headlines like the FT's "iPad takes over as the lecture hall aid of choice" .
However, when Apple's iPad was set to move into schools with no opposition, RM stepped in to the fray with it's Windows-based RM Tablet PC. And now the Android platform has its own contender, the LearnPad P10, 10-inch tablet which Cardiff education supplier Avantis says has been designed specifically for schools. It costs just £295 and has a full school-day battery life (eight hours).
The LearnPad uses the Android 2.2 system, just like Samsung's Galaxy Tab. And where it is – at least initially – likely to score over the iPad for many schools is in its Flash capability, so it can handle education content that uses Flash software. This is a serious issue for schools which have invested in highly rated and popular education services like Espresso, Education City , Sherston Planet, BBC education online materials and many other online educational video material. These, as yet, can't be accessed on the iPad.
Another aspect of tablets like the iPad – and some Android devices – which has been off-putting for education purchasers is network access, and hinges on what are known as proxy servers. Avantis has tackled this issue by providing a software 'patch' to permit wifi with both 'authenticated' and 'open proxy access'. And materials can be introduced to the LearnPad via USB, micro SD card or from an app store, so there is no reliance on subscriptions and proprietary software like iTunes, another perceived obstacle to iPad adoption.
'A low-cost, portable, reliable and secure platform upon which to access existing content'
“Tablets provide a unique, exciting and intuitive way for children to interact with today’s eLearning content," says Avantis' Nik Tuson. "LearnPad has been designed specifically for schools, providing a low-cost, portable, reliable and secure platform upon which to access existing content, including flash-based applications such as Espresso and Educationcity.com.
"LearnPad provides a safe and controlled way for children to interact with the content, including a locked-down interface allowing them to only run specified applications and a child-safe web browser, restricting them to approved websites only. This creates a fast and efficient way to deliver eLearning and reduces the time spent supporting ICT equipment, making it a great replacement for netbooks and laptops in primary schools.”
LearnPad has its own pre-installed education applications for foundation stage and primary, like ContentSuite, along with other education apps from the app store. It can be used as a mobile device or secured to a desk.
It's already being used in schools and getting positive reactions. "The children are so excited by the LearnPads and eager to explore and discuss what they can be used for in class," says ICT advanced skills teacher Vicky Plested, of South Marston Church of England Primary School, Swindon. "Reception aged children are easily able to navigate to chosen websites and apps and find their way ‘home’. The lock-down facility means the children are able to have more control on how they use them without the teacher worrying about what they can access. I am now in trouble if I don’t bring it home each night for my 5-year-old and 2-year-old to play on it!"
This is how Avantis describes the LearnPad's key features:
- Replaces bulky, fixed, expensive, unreliable and difficult to use PC;
- Secure and controlled user interface and child-safe web browser to allow access to approved online content only;
- Works with existing, Flash-based eLearning content;
- Compact, low power, light weight and portable, with an 8 hour active battery life;
- Highly reliable and very low maintenance. No need for keyboard, mouse or speakers;
- Can be shared between classrooms or securely fixed in dedicated computer labs;
- Can be used as a stand alone device or can connect to your existing computer network;
- Download exciting new interactive content directly from the LearnPad™ AppStore
LearnPad LP10 technical specifications
Dimensions 267x173x14.3mm; 10.1-inch LCD capacitive multi-touch 1024x600 screen; processor - Nvidia Tegra 250 1Ghz (Dual Cortex A9); 512Mb DDR2 RAM; 16 Gb storage; micro SD expansion slot; 2 x USB Ports (1x mini USB); docking port; 802.11 b/g WiFi; built in 1.3M front camera; Bluetooth 2.1; G-Sensor (accelerometer); light sensor; built In stereo speakers; 3.5mm headphone socket; 3500 mAh 7.4v Li-Polymer battery with 8-hour active usage; Android 2.2 operating system.
Out of the box
LearnPad tablet; UK DC power adaptor; USB cable, user manual, 1 year hardware return-to-base (RTB) warranty and unlimited email technical support
Prices
LearnPad LP10 £295; Office Suite application £20; 8Gb Micro SD expansion card £15; acrylic desk mount £25, wireless network access point £65, USB keyboard £25, extended support and warranty (1 year) £25
Avantis Systems Ltd, First Floor 105 Bute Street, Cardiff CF10 5AD
Tel: 0845 862 0390
Fax: 0845 862 0391
www.avantisworld.com
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A full review of the LearnPad LP10, by Chris Drage will be published on this website shortly
