Originally published in TEACH Magazine, September/October 2016 Issue
When the school year begins, assignments, tests, and class information start to build quickly. Organization is key. Here are some apps to help students keep their focus clear when things start to pile up.
Docs to Go
(Free – iOS, Android)
Use this app to make Microsoft Office available anywhere. View, edit, and create Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents and view Adobe PDF files on your device of choice.
EasyBib
(Free – Website)
Bibliographies and citations can be confusing and daunting. EasyBib is a website and app that helps make it easy. Simply snap a photo of the barcode on the back of a book with a smartphone and the citation is automatically generated. The citations are saved in a list that can be exported by email. Users can also switch between many citation styles, such as MLA, Chicago, APA, ASA, and more.
iHomework
(Paid – iOS, Website)
Being organized is a great way to start the school year. iHomework gives students an easy way to keep up-to-date with teacher information, assignments, grades, and to-dos. For example, students can schedule assignments in a calendar, record grades received, and add partners to group assignments, allowing quick access to contact information. The app also allows them to sync information across all of their iDevices, making it easy to stay on track as the school year becomes busier.
myHomework
(Paid – iOS, Android, Website)
This app makes it simple to organize and keep track of class schedules and upcoming assignments, automatically colour-coding them according to their due date. It also syncs with a desktop counterpart, keeping user’s iPhones and computers up to date on what’s due.
SimpleMind
(Free – iOS, Android, Website)
Creative writing can be difficult with many ideas floating around the mind and no order to them. SimpleMind is a mind map tool that can help make writing a little easier. Users can brainstorm, place topics/ideas in a layout, link topics, and reorganize and restructure them using drag, rotate, re-arrange, or reconnect features. The app also allows the addition of images, media, and documents.
TEACH is the largest national education publication in Canada. We support good teachers and teaching, and believe in innovation in education.
