Week 6 - Apps for Science Instruction

Throughout this class, we have discussed different technological means for teaching our students.  We have looked at countless online resources and even different types of hardware that can be beneficial in the classroom.  One type of technology that hasn't been mentioned until now is the use of apps on the smart phone to help with learning.  Two years ago a chemistry teacher at the school where I teach received a grant for iPods to help with certain concepts.  She downloaded several apps that are helpful to her students.  I went on a search of my own and found some applications that would be beneficial in my area of teaching.  I've included the apps and a summary of how they can be used below!

#1 - Leafsnap

I actually downloaded this app when I was snow skiing because I wanted to know about a particular leaf.  After exploring this app I concluded that it would be very helpful to my Botany students.  This app allows students to take pictures of leaves they find and it will identify what type of leaf it is.  They are able to make leaf collections on the app based on the pictures they take.  They are also able to browse particular types of leaves dependent on location.  This would make a great project for students!

#2 - Khan Academy

I did not know until researching for this blog but there is a Khan Academy app! This is a definite must for science classrooms.  Sal does a great job of explaining different science concepts in an easy to understand manner.  This app allows students to watch the different videos to increase their understanding of confusing classroom topics. 

#3 - Science Glossary

Science Glossary is a great go-to app for students that have forgotten a particular science term or even the works of a certain scientist.  This app provides pictures to help increase the understanding of the student.  This app would be beneficial for students who are working on science projects and need a little extra help with science terminology. 

#4 - BiolQ: Biology Picture Game

This app utilizes a topic we mentioned at the beginning of this class.  It teaches biology through the help of a game.  This app is an interactive game that teaches different topics in biology.  Students can review information through an interactive model of the cell and reinforce their learning of the vocabulary associated with each topic.  It is a picture game that requires the student to not only be able to remember vocabulary words but also label the topic at hand.