Idea that will disrupt the online language learning market

Most Convenient and Reliable Way to Improve Spoken English

Mobile App

Market Problem

• People who want to improve their English speaking skills, but who are not self-directed learners, end up not improving their English speaking skills.

Existing Alternatives

• Online English schools (Skype-based and own software)

• Online marketplaces for tutoring (usually for discovery, scheduling, and payment)

• Language exchange websites and apps (social networking)

• Language learning websites and apps (media, courses, games)

• Traditional in-person lessons with individuals or companies

Market Mentality Shift

• Changes in behavior and belief in what is convenient, compared to how existing alternatives like Skype classes are still being marketed as convenient when there are so many steps.

• These, which people have called problems in the industry, can be eliminated: Decision fatigue and commitment (choosing school, teacher, time), Internet connection quality (“can you hear me?”), Risk of teacher absence or cancellation

Proposed Solution

• Messaging app where learners improve their spoken English simply by practicing with a vetted person

Differentiator

• Eliminates friction of decisions, scheduling, and payments

• Conversation rather than lesson blocks

• Proactive tutor for the more passive learner (who is very accustomed to using messaging apps with friends)

Avatar

• Pete studied English in school. He never really practiced but knows that it is important to speak the language. He has seen ads for Skype lessons but is not particularly motivated to experience that method because of its hassles. Traditional language schools are expensive. He once downloaded a language exchange app but found it difficult to teach his language and also be proactive in learning English. He has previously even tried watching videos, but that no longer does the trick. He simply needs practice, is very much interested in practicing, but is not very motivated in being proactive about it.

Customer

• People who have learned English before, but need practice.

• 1) People who are aware of or have experienced current online video-based classes, but believe that they do not have time or find this method a hassle (Skype classes cohort)

• 2) People who are trying on language exchange social networks, but do not really want to teach their own language and really only want to improve their English (language exchange cohort)

• 3) People who have subscribed to, watched, or used games , videos, and course content to learn, but are not self-directed learners (content consumer cohort)

Potential Revenue Model

• Transaction Percentage

• Subscription/Membership

Learner UX (MVP)

• Registration (Name, Email, Goals)

• Budget and Payment Information ($/hour or month, Credit Card)

• Match with Mentor (can accept or reject based on written and audio personal statement)

• Chat (where tutor is incentivized to be proactive)

Tutor UX (MVP)

• Registration (Name, Email, Specialty)

• Starting Rate ($/hour, payment receipt method)

• [Vetting]

• Alert when someone is interested

• Chat

Notes

• I’ve been looking into and have gotten my feet wet into the English learning industry since 2013. Given what I’ve learned, from problems encountered by current students, schools, and teachers, I foresee my proposed solution as where the market is heading (plus some features that the market finds important and habit forming such as learning results).

Test: Landing Page

Test: Facebook Ad to Opt-in