By Swain Thorne
Sam Cover spent years in education before moving into consulting. He follows the latest education and technology trends. He recently researched and reviewed the best new edtech apps.
1. WhiteHat Jr.
WhiteHat Jr. has brought coding to kids in a fun way for 3 years. They now have an app in addition to their desktop site. Kids and parents can access the apps.
Parents can schedule classes and monitor their child’s progress. Kids can take classes and learn to code right in the app. Sam Cover says the app is created for kids 6 to 14.
WhiteHat. Jr. provides one on one coding instruction. It can help children learn logic, math, and algorithmic thinking. 90% of jobs today require tech skills, and this number will only grow as tech evolves.
White Hat Jr. provides one on one instruction via certified teachers and breaks the concepts down in a way that children can understand them. As the class progresses, kids will even design and code their own app.
The skills gained from learning coding extend beyond the keyboard. It teaches logical thinking and problem-solving skills which can help them excel in any area.
2. Prodigy
Prodigy is an app designed to get kids excited about math. It’s designed to be more like a game than other learning apps. Students explore a fantasy world and play an RPG-style game. At the same time, they encounter different types of math problems.
75% more students pass the grade level when using Prodigy, and Prodigy users score 2 times higher on the STAAR exam. It uses an adaptive algorithm to adapt to the child’s learning style and skill level.
Parents can set up an account to monitor their child’s progress. This includes a monthly report card. It also highlights areas where they do well and areas where they need more practice.
3. Splash Learn
Splash Learn is designed for children in pre-5th grade. It provides a personalized learning experience that adapts to each child. The algorithm is constantly improving as the app is used by more kids.
Sam explains that it includes reading and math, and can be used by both parents and teachers. The games are scientifically designed to be engaging and help children learn.
Parents can use the app independently to teach their children. Teachers have tools to improve learning outcomes, including learning outcomes and sharing updates with parents.
4. Nearpod
Nearpod is an edtech app for teachers. It provides many ways to teach, including games, interactive videos, and slides. Teachers can choose from pre-made materials or create their own.
Cover says that Nearpod is great for in-person, virtual, and hybrid learning. The tools allow teachers to teach students no matter where they are.
5. Kahoot
Kahoot is another app that is beneficial for teachers and parents, says Cover. Even businesses can use Kahoot to help employees retain information.
It allows teachers to create a learning quiz or game quickly, or choose from premade materials. The game can then be played live on a big screen, or remotely through devices.
Kahoot has more than 1 million players each year, and is used by 50% of teachers.
6. Google Arts and Culture
Google is bringing art and culture to anyone anywhere. You’ll find photos and videos of art, architecture, and historical events. Some items offer a 360 degree view that will make students feel like they are there.
Physical field trips may be off the table this year, but virtual exploration can show students things they’d never see otherwise.
Sam Cover says the Expeditions feature is his favorite. It takes students on full virtual field trips with engaging articles and 360 degree interactive photos. Choose from topics including natural history, geography, and science in technology.
