App Reviews

 ISTE Standards for Students (2016)

Standard 1.3 - Knowledge Constructor

Verbiage: Students critically curate a variety of resources using digital tools to construct knowledge, produce creative artifacts, and make meaningful learning experiences for themselves and others.

App 1: Epic! - Digital Library for Kids

Review Link: Common Sense Media Review of Epic!                    https://www.commonsensemedia.org/app-reviews/epic

Epic! provides access to a massive digital library of over 40,000 books, audiobooks, and educational videos tailored to children’s reading levels and interests. The cost is free for educators and a family subscription is $9.99/month. The age range is 4–12 years of age. The platform compatibility is iOS, Android, and web-based computers. Common Sense Media is a trusted nonprofit organization known for its objective reviews of media and technology used by children and educators. It uses a transparent rubric based on educational value, ease of use, and user feedback.

 

App 2: Khan Academy Kids

Review Link: Common Sense Media Review of Khan Academy Kids https://www.commonsensemedia.org/app-reviews/khan-academy-kids

Khan Academy Kids offers engaging, standards-aligned activities in literacy, math, logic, and emotional development through games, songs, and stories. The cost is free. The age group is 2-8 years old. The platform compatibility is iOS, Android, and Amazon Fire tablets. Common Sense Media provides detailed evaluations from educators and parents, including privacy and safety ratings, which are critical when using apps with young children.

 

App 3: Nearpod

Review Link: EdTech Impact Review of Nearpod                  https://edtechimpact.com/products/nearpod/

Nearpod allows teachers to create interactive lessons that include quizzes, polls, videos, and VR experiences. Students can follow along in real-time on their own devices. The cost is free for basic version and premium starts at $159/year. The age group is suitable for grades K–12. The platform compatibility is web-based computers, iOS, Android. EdTech Impact collects reviews from verified educators around the world and evaluates apps based on classroom impact, pedagogy, and ease of implementation.

 

Best App Choice: Nearpod

Nearpod stands out because it is interactive, adaptable across all grade levels, and supports real-time engagement, which aligns well with the ISTE Knowledge Constructor standard. It allows students to access a variety of digital resources, reflect on their learning, and collaborate during lessons. Its integration of multimedia content and assessment tools makes it ideal for both in person and remote learning environments.