As you would have seen in our last post, technology is growing at a rapid pace; it has the benefits of allowing us to access information easier, look up videos, hold important personal dates and so on. Thanks to these advances, we can find all of these things on one device, as well as a range of apps that cater to us. We all have apps that serve a purpose, from fun apps, such as magazines, to putting together a presentation. However, when it comes to educational apps for children, are they a friend or a foe?
We know that multi touch screens in the classroom hold the key to new opportunities for learning. The MTS and the interaction it creates with students helps and motivates them to learn in a fun way. Even though most of the apps are set up for use in the classroom, they can still be used at home on any screen that allows teacher’s to see the progress of their students with recorded data and reference materials being made available. Looking after 30 or so students can be difficult so having an app that keeps all the information under the one umbrella, makes life easier.
The question on all parent and teacher’s minds is what app is best for children? Here are a few questions to ask yourself before introducing your child/student to the app:
- What is its main purpose?
- Is the app one that students will return to often?
- Does the app open up new ways to learn?
- Does the subject matter appeal to the appropriate grade level?
- How does the app develop and guide their skills?
- Are there multiple skill levels for children of all ages?
- Are there relevant assessments and recorded data?
- How does the app build on skills?
The list goes on but these main questions will help you determine whether or not the app is right for your child/student. An alternative way to see if the app is great is to trial it yourself. Playing along with the app and going through the questions above will give you an answer straight away. Here are a few apps that you can have a play with. Another bonus is that they are FREE! (Available on iTunes and Android)
1. Find Little Dot 1-10
This app is for toddlers who are starting to learn to count numbers. This is a fun-loving app that allows children to enjoy the colours and the character’s interaction to explore the game even more. A few of the benefits of this game are the audio and the easy to follow instructions, creating an enjoyable and educational game in the one app.
2. Endless Numbers
This mathematical app allows for children, aged 4 to 7 years old, to interact with sequences, puzzles and animations to numerical patterns. The animation reinforces the counting and number recognition, allowing children to go at their own pace, with no high scores or limits to playing. The basic numeracy skills give great guidance for children to learn mathematics in a fun way.
3. Farm Factor: Multiply and Divide
This engaging app allows children aged 6 to 10 years old to solve multiplication and division with interactive objects and stories. There are 60 math problems that will help unlock the story as you go along with the game. Using objects (such as boxes and vegetables) will help children physically see the math problem being solved work its magic. This app will also help target problem-solving and mathematical reasoning.
4. KidQuest
Children aged 8 years and older, select from a range of activities, from crafts to experiments, to build on their own or in a group. The step-by-step illustrated guideline can help children recall and retain information that allows them to share their own creative ideas on the app and outside of the classroom. Benefits of this app are children working together; getting outdoors, and photos can be taken and uploaded onto the app to share with others.
5. Vocabulary/Spelling City
Learning spelling and vocabulary is made easy and fun in this app. The different grade levels and mini games make it more enjoyable and educational. With weekly spelling tests for children to do at home, you can create your own word list. From Spelling Test Me to Hang Mouse, you’ll see how this app is a great learning tool both at school and at home.
There are many apps out there by these ones are free! Embrace the movement of educational apps in the classroom and enjoy them with your children, I’m sure it’ll bring out the inner child in you.
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