Amanda L. Darlington Diffusion & Integration of Technology EDUC 8841 Walden University

 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.

 iPads allow teachers and student access to applications, software, and websites  iPads attracts 21 st 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.

 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

 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.

 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

 Production located in:  Manufacturing: Designed by Apple in California. Assembled in China. Apple does not disclose specific information regarding manufacturing.  Marketing:

 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.

 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, , text, phone, and delivered mail

 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.

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

 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.

 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.