6 Things Educational Workers Need To Know About Using Apps
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Regardless of whether you're a teacher, administrator, or another kind of educational worker, staying on top of technology can be difficult. With the explosion in the number and versatility of apps for both personal and business use, it's easy to get overwhelmed when trying to pick an appropriate app for your needs. Here are six things you should keep in mind when deciding on an app for educational use.
1. You Can Bring Them All Together
By researching different app providers, you can find the best platform that will offer a variety of tools to meet all your needs. Whether it's a task-management tool, an online grade book, or something else entirely, there are apps out there designed specifically for educational use. Specialists from appsanywhere.com recommend using a platform that can bring all your apps together in one place for easy access and use. It's also important to look for a platform that offers integration with other modules, such as communications systems and attendance tracking.
2. Look for Security & Privacy
Not all apps are created equal, so it is important for educational workers to be aware of the security and privacy measures that the app has in place. Look for apps that have built-in encryption, data encryption at rest, and other security measures such as two-factor authentication and user verification. Also, pay attention to where your data is being stored – if possible choose an app that stores data in a secure cloud rather than on a device or local server. Additionally, check what permissions an app requires before you install it – too many permissions can mean more risk of your data being compromised.
3. Consider the Cost
Many free educational apps out there can be quite helpful for educators, but there are also a great number of paid apps that offer additional features and capabilities. It is important to weigh the cost of an app against its potential usefulness in your particular setting. Consider how much time you will save by using the app and if it is worth the financial investment. Additionally, think about whether or not purchasing multiple licenses would make sense as well. If a student needs to access the app, they may need their own license. It's important to look for app providers that offer discounts for bulk purchases.
4. Think About Mobility
When selecting apps for educational use, you should consider how mobile they are. For instance, some apps offer a web version that can be accessed on any device with an internet connection. Others need to be downloaded onto the device it will be used on. It's important to determine whether or not your students have access to the necessary technology and if the app is suitable for their needs. If your classes involve field trips or other activities where mobility is necessary, make sure you choose an app that can go wherever you do! Additionally, some apps may require additional software purchases in order for them to work properly. Be sure to factor this cost into your budget when deciding which app(s) to invest in.
5. Research Technical Support
Before deciding to incorporate an app into the classroom, educational workers should make sure that technical support is available in case of any issues. It’s important to consider whether the app comes with a help desk or if you have to pay for technical support services separately. Additionally, read the FAQ and user manual associated with the app. Make sure that any staff who will be using it are familiar with how it works and how they can get help when needed. This can help to avoid any potential delays or frustrations in the classroom.
6. Test the App & Seek Feedback
Before you officially launch your app, be sure to test it and get feedback. Check the functionality and performance of the app on different devices to make sure it works as intended. Also, send out a survey or poll asking users what they think about the app. Their feedback is invaluable for making changes and improvements in future versions of your app. Moreover, remember that user experience matters when it comes to educational apps – fast loading times and intuitive design are essential for engaging students.
