BASD App Vetting Process

There's a Form for That!

The Endless Search for Apps

Mobile apps are quickly redefining how the world interacts with information, and education apps are no exception. In fact, they are becoming the primary learning resource in many classrooms. But there’s more to selecting an app than browsing random lists online.


From lists that rate apps for students of a certain age, to lists that provide educator reviews of apps, many sites have been developed to help teachers go beyond a quick browse of iTunes.


You're sure to find a tool that you will help you, and your students, learn something new from this lineup of resources that vet apps specifically for education.


AppAbled

Offers app advice for the special needs community.


App Annie

Lists popular educational apps and related analytics.


Appysmarts

Provides vetted education apps for a variety of subjects, grade levels and other categories such as free or discounted apps. There’s also an apps review forum.


Balefire Labs

Presents app reviews to guide educators as they navigate the world of educational apps.


Common Sense Media (formerly Graphite)

Reviews apps (as well as movies and games) so teachers can make informed decisions about what tools are appropriate for the classroom. All tools are thoroughly reviewed by their education staff.


Education World

Shares insights and reviews of iOS apps that can be utilized in the classroom.


Educational App Store

Focuses on matching educational apps to the curriculum, ensuring that both educators and learners get the most out of their mobile learning experience. Apps are reviewed based on performance, educational value and curriculum alignment.


Fun Educational Apps

Tests and reviews iOS apps to make it easy for educators to find those hidden gems on the App Store!


iKidApps

Explores 550+ of the "best apps for kids" grouped in various categories.


iPad Apps for School

A blog (written by edtech guru Richard Byrne) dedicated to providing summaries of apps and how they can be utilized in the educational settings.


KinderTown

Transforms mobile devices into powerful teaching tools by finding and organizing the best educational apps for kids ages 3-8 years old.


Participate Learning

Assists educators with locating the best digital resources available for Pre-K to 12th grade.


Teachers with Apps

Organizes and reviews apps educators are using in their classrooms. Every app is field-tested with a cross-section of teachers/students as part of the review process.

Collections of Tried & Tested Educational Apps for the iPad

Additional details about the following infographics (as well as reviews of individuals apps) can be found on the Edutech for Teachers blog.



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So, I found an app for my classroom... Now What?

Step I: Educational App Checklists

With the abundance of apps available, it is important that educators critically evaluate the educational opportunities these tools provide. Let’s face it… Flashy, colorful, unique apps will most definitely capture the attention of your students, but is this the way we want them to experience learning? Probably not so much.


That said, before you officially request an app for your students, download it from the App Store and take some time to examine it yourself. As you experiment, consider using one (or more) of these checklists to help you determine the instructional and technical quality of the tool.


Using one of these guides is not a requirement, but a highly recommended part of the App Vetting process.



  • Another useful checklist that will help you determine whether or not an app would be a worthwhile addition to the classroom can be found here.



The bottom line is that what makes an effective app is one that does what you need it to do for your students. And it's even better if the tool does so in an inexpensive and engaging way! That said, if you feel you have located one that will enhance teaching and learning, take the next step outlined below...

Step II: BASD App Request Form

In order to request an app for use in your classroom...


1. Click here to review a list of apps already requested by BASD staff. Please do not submit an additional request if the app is found on this document.


2. If the app has not yet been reviewed, complete the App Request Form located here.


Once your form is submitted, it will be evaluated by our Technology Team. You will receive a notification regarding the status of your request within a 1-2 week time frame.

Collections of Apps Used in the BASD

Click here to access the apps currently utilized in classrooms throughout the Bellwood-Antis School District.

Got Questions? Contact Me!

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