ZyBooks

zyBooks is an innovative educational technology company that specializes in creating interactive textbooks for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) students and instructors. Founded in 2012 by Frank Vahid, a Computer Science and Engineering professor at UC Riverside, and Smita Bakshi, a former Electrical and Computer Engineering professor at UC Davis, zyBooks aims to revolutionize the traditional textbook model by incorporating interactive elements such as animations, responsive questions, and concise text. This approach significantly improves student engagement and learning outcomes, as evidenced by students voluntarily spending twice as much time with zyBooks compared to traditional textbooks, despite the zyBooks containing half as much text.

zyBooks primarily serves educational institutions, including universities and colleges, by providing digital textbooks that are accessible and engaging. The company's business model involves selling subscriptions to these interactive textbooks, which can be customized to fit the specific needs of instructors and students. Revenue is generated through these subscriptions, as well as through institutional licenses.

The market for zyBooks is the educational technology sector, specifically focusing on STEM education. The company is committed to accessibility, ensuring that its digital products meet the standards set by the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA and Section 508, making learning inclusive for all students.

Keywords: interactive textbooks, STEM education, student engagement, digital learning, educational technology, concise text, animations, responsive questions, accessibility, institutional licenses.