When it comes to school, one thing is certain – the more organized a student is, the better grades they tend to receive. Fortunately, there are a number of new smart phone applications that make organizing time and tasks easier than ever. And better yet, engaging graphics and designs help make keeping track of projects and school assignments a cinch even for reluctant students. Who says being organized has to be boring?
Here are my top picks for iPhone and iPad apps that can be quickly downloaded to your phone or your kid’s phone:
Apps for Younger Students
EpicWin – Designed much like a video game, EpicWin (screenshot pictured right) is a fun digital organizer your kids will love. Once they choose an avatar, they select a task that they want to accomplish. Points are earned as tasks are completed, and along the way “treasures” are earned.
iReward Chart – Perfect for younger children, iReward Chart tracks chores or behavior goals and monitors your child’s progress over the course of the week. When an action is completed, the child earns a star toward a reward.
Task Timer – For students who have difficulty following a task to completion, Task Timer is a great choice. First pick a task and determine a completion time. Task Timer will show the time elapsed and time remaining. You can also include breaks and use the intermittent vibrating reminder to help you stay on task.
Apps Just for Teens
inClass – This is one of the hottest apps right now. inClass (screenshot pictured left) keeps track of all your courses and even sends you a text before class so that you are never late again. Not only that, but it will help you keep track of your tasks by reminding you that one is due soon, so no more procrastination. In addition, it lets you take video notes, audio notes and photo notes and syncs it all in one place.
iStudiez Pro (for all phones, not just Apple products) – This is a universal app designed to help students, teachers and parents easily keep track of school schedules, homework, exams and grades. Planner tools, notifications, grade and GPA tracking features are provided.
For Parents and Kids
Google Calendar (for all phones) – You and your child can set up on your desktop, and it will sync with your phone’s built in calendar, letting you view, add or edit appointments when you are on the go. You can also share your Google Calendar and view your child’s as well.
Encourage your child to take a look and find the app that he or she finds to be the best match. In no time at all, your child will feel more organized and on top of school work!
Ann K. Dolin, M.Ed., is the founder and president of Educational Connections Tutoring and Test Prep in Fairfax, VA and Bethesda, MD. In her award-winning book, Homework Made Simple: Tips, Tools, and Solutions to Stress-Free Homework
, Dolin offers proven solutions to help the six key types of students who struggle with homework. Numerous examples and easy-to-implement, fun tips will help make learning less of a chore for the whole family. Learn more at anndolin.com or ectutoring.com.
