ISTE Standard 1.1.c: Students use technology to seek feedback that informs and improves their practice and to demonstrate their learning in a variety of ways.
This app, which can also be downloaded as an extension for various browsers, allows the user to receive real-time feedback about their grammar, spelling, tone, and more in regards to their writing. Grammarly does offer a free membership, but monthly and yearly subscriptions are also available for a hefty price, though subscription discounts are offered on a regular basis. This educational resource can be used by any child who is at the point to begin revising and bettering their writing. In fact, consultants serving writing centers at institutions recommend Grammarly to students seeking writing assistance. Grammarly can be downloaded as an extension for browsers, such as Google Chrome, and as an app for phones, including Android and Apple.
I am linking the review of Grammarly written by PCMag. This website reviews all types of things related to technology, including apps, games, hardware, and more. PCMag makes it simple for readers by including a pros-and-cons list and a specification box. Ben Moore, the author of the article, also gives a narrative of his own use of Grammarly.
ISTE Standard 1.7.b: Students use collaborative technologies to work with others, including peers, experts, or community members, to examine issues and problems from multiple viewpoints.
FlipGrid, an educational app, can be accessed directly through the website or is included as an extension in many learning management systems, such as Canvas. Educators can use this app to assign a specific topic to students, and students must record a short video responding to the topic. Students can watch the videos of their peers and even create response videos. A great thing about this app is that it's free. Teachers who teach primarily online can use this as a resource to create a classroom community instead of assigning discussion board posts the whole time. As mentioned above, students can download the FlipGrid app on an Apple or Android phone or navigate to the browser version through their learning management system.
I am linking the review of FlipGrid by Common Sense Education. The reason I trust this website for reviews of education apps is stated directly on the website: "Common Sense is the nation's leading nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of all kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive in the 21st century." Not only does the website publish reviews of these apps, but real teachers and educators can post their own comments.
ISTE Standard 1.6.c.: Students communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively by creating or using a variety of digital objects such as visualizations, models, or simulations.
Quizlet is an intuitive educational app students can use to maximize their learning of certain topics through flashcards, tests, and more. Educators can also sign up to create classroom sets to provide their own students with study tools to assist with the memorization of topics covered in the classroom. The website has even added an AI-Tutor feature. This app can be utilized by students of all ages. Students can sign up for free but with limited functionality. There is a thirty-day free trial; after that, students will be billed $35.99/year. Quizlet has apps for both Android and Apple and can be accessed through a browser.
I am linking the review of Quizlet by Common Sense Education. As mentioned above, the review takes into account anecdotal evidence that has been provided by educators. Teachers can even get suggestions on how to use Quizlet in their own classroom from the review.
Out of these three apps, the one I would use and recommend most is Grammarly. Because I do teach English composition courses online, I don't always have the opportunity to help students in real time with their writing skills. Grammarly provides the student with what he/she/they need to better their writing and, hopefully, make my grading easier.
Your review of Grammarly, FlipGrid, and Quizlet provides a comprehensive overview of these educational apps. For Grammarly, I’d like to add that it could also be beneficial for non-native English speakers in improving their language proficiency. For FlipGrid, it might be interesting to explore how it could be used for peer feedback sessions, enhancing the collaborative learning experience.
ReplyDeleteRegarding Quizlet, while it’s a great tool for memorization-based subjects, it might be less effective for subjects that require critical thinking or problem-solving skills. Perhaps incorporating an app like MindMeister, which allows for mind mapping and brainstorming, could provide a more balanced toolkit for students.