Leap Learning edtech solution reduces learning poverty around the world

Access to good-quality education is unevenly distributed across the globe. This results in “learning poverty”, measured by the number of 10-year-olds who cannot read and understand a simple story by the end of primary school.

In low and middle-income countries, the rate of learning poverty is 53 per cent, while for the poorest countries it is 80 per cent. More innovative education technology (edtech) solutions are needed to solve this problem, particularly in remote areas with limited infrastructure.

Leap Learning has developed a learning method that uses technology to bring basic education to children, no matter where they live in the world. The solution has more than 500 learning apps in the areas of literacy, numeracy and logic. These are mainly intended for primary schoolchildren, but older learners can benefit as well. Entrepreneurship is also offered, and other subjects such as creativity and the natural sciences will be added over time.

Leap Learning is more than just a collection of apps, however. The apps can be used on their own, but the solution also combines technology and hands-on games in a flipped classroom known as Leap Learning Labs. These are stations in a classroom or other suitable space where children can work independently at their own level and own pace. The lab equipment is mobile. The entire system fits into two suitcases and can be set up anywhere. The apps and labs reinforce each other in a child-centred model.

Leap Learning is currently available in 10 different languages, and more languages can easily be added. The system also enables easy development of custom-made apps for specific local learning needs.

Leap Learning is available both online and offline, making education accessible even in remote areas with limited infrastructure. Because the solution is plug-and-play, schools can easily get started in a few hours with no previous experience.

In addition, the solution shifts the focus from teacher-centred instruction to child-centred learning. This can help countries to meet their modernised curriculum goals and ease teacher staffing pressure. It can also be used as a teacher training tool. Many schools also report an increase in attendance and excitement for learning.

Education technology has become a multi-billion-dollar sector for both developed and developing countries. State and local authorities, schools and NGOs are all making investments in edtech for various reasons – from increasing student engagement to reducing poverty and social inequalities.

Leap Learning has launched pilot projects in 20 countries around the world, and more than 200 schools in Norway are currently using the learning apps.