Educational institutions of all sizes and functions have invested money into applications designed to help students learn effectively. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, applications have become more important in the educational field.
In this article, we run through some of the most important aspects that are shared by good educational apps.
Good User Experience
User Experience – or UX – in web design refers to how a user interacts with a website and the emotions and perceptions they have during and after their visit. A good UX design ensures that the website is easy to use, efficient and provides a positive experience for the user. UX is especially important in the creation of a successful educational application. Users need to be able to engage with the content provided by the app easily, and they need to be able to reinforce their learning successfully. Most educational apps are designed with specific user types in mind, and it is crucial that the UX of the app is tailored to their specific needs, age range and interests. Poorly designed educational apps can lead to frustration and disengagement, ultimately leading to decreased usage and a negative impact on learning outcomes.
Simple Navigation
The best educational apps – such as those designed by Concept4 – feature extremely simple navigational pathways. Simple navigation is important for educational apps for several reasons. A simple navigational design makes it easier for students to access the content they need, allowing them to quickly find the information they are looking for. This can reduce the time it takes to complete tasks and improve the overall user experience. Simple navigation can help reduce cognitive load on the user, allowing them to focus on learning and retaining information. If navigation is complex or confusing, it can lead to frustration and a negative experience for the user.
Dynamic Database
Good educational apps cannot be static. They have to have constantly updating and evolving sets of educational data in order to be useful for long periods of time. Most educational apps are regularly updated with new lessons, games, help features and a great deal more. An app that does not update may as well be a pamphlet in real terms. Most experts suggest updating educational apps at least once a month. Updates can contain important changes that ensure the ongoing security of the app creators, clients and users. Insecure educational apps can lead to massive embarrassment for school and university convenors.
Live Seminars
The rise of video conferencing technology in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic has enabled students of all ages to become familiar with the concept of a remote seminar. Seminars are key learning opportunities – they allow students to both learn and interact with the information they have learned in a reciprocal setting. Many educational apps include video conferencing functions that allow students to take part in seminars without leaving the app.
Social Features
People learn best when they learn socially in many cases. Good educational apps regularly feature zones where students can discuss and build upon their education.
