Table A.4
Advantage Learning Systems, Inc.
Company history
Advantage Learning Systems was founded in 1986.
Service description
Advantage Learning Systems provides learning information systems to K12
schools in the United States and Canada.
· Advantage Learning Systems' flagship product, Accelerated Reader, con-
sists of computer-based multiple-choice tests on approximately 20,500
books appropriate to students in grades K12. Similar programs in math
and grammar are also available.
· Some programs include a database that enables teachers to monitor each
student's performance and compare it to national norms.
Market penetration
Advantage Learning Systems has sold products to 41,500 schools, or
approximately 33 percent of the K12 market.a
Results
Independent studies conducted on the company's behalf indicate that use of
the Accelerated Reader improves standardized test performance in reading.b
Cost
Prices vary depending on the services purchased. For instance, the
Accelerated Reader Starter Kit includes four disks with up to 200 quizzes
and costs approximately $399. A Multi-User School License Kit for up to
200 students costs $1,499.c
a
Advantage Learning Systems, Inc., "Annual Report," Securities and Exchange Commission Form 10-
K, March 1, 1999, p. 1.
b
Ibid., p. 3.
c
Advantage Learning Systems, Inc., "Fall 1999 Catalogue."
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