Five apps that make learning easier and more fun

Apps have become an integral part of our lives. We use them across our devices, for work and play – from taking notes and checking flights, to reading books and playing games. So it’s no surprise that apps also play a role in teaching and learning. Not only does interaction with these apps introduce students to the all-important skills they need to work with technology in the 21st century, many are also useful tools to help students come to grips with subject matter and stay organised.

There are thousands of education apps available on the Windows Store, but to make your choice a bit easier, we’ve put together our top five.

1. Didlr

Didler is a free app suitable for students in grades 6 to 8. It allows users to draw on your PC, tablet, smartphone and the web, and then share your creations with your friends via social networks, email, SMS or instant messaging. This is a great introduction to the world of design, as well as a creative outlet when students need an escape from their academic work.

2. GeoGebra

Created by the Internationales Geogebra Institute, GeoGebra is free dynamic software, aimed at grades 6 to 12, that brings together geometry, algebra, spreadsheets, graphing, statistics and calculus in one place. It’s also a repository of interactive learning, teaching and evaluation resources that can be shared and used by logging on to tube.geogebra.org.

3. CK-12

Also aimed at grades 6 to 12, CK-12 includes videos, images, quizzes, exercises and learning aides to make maths and science fun. The maths library covers topics such as algebra, arithmetic, statistics and geometry, while the science library includes topics on biology, chemistry and physics. It’s a useful tool for teaching and learning in your own style, at your own pace.

4. Guru Cool Play School

Created by KidZone Studios, Guru Cool Play School is the highest rated app for preschoolers. The games on the app have been developed by professional specialising in childhood development and adopt a multisensory approach to learning. An assortment of music, sounds, pictures and touch experiences keep preschoolers engaged while teaching them about shapes, letters, phonetics, numbers and counting in a positive environment.

5. MyHomework

MyHomework is a planner app created by instin to help students stay organised. It’s an easy way for students to keep track of their classes, homework, tests and projects, so that they don’t forget to submit an assignment or study for an exam.

Whether you’re a parent or a teacher, and whether the students in your life are preschoolers or about to write their final exams, there’s an app available to make the learning process easier and more fun. For more great examples, visit aka.ms/Apps3Edu.