education | technology | ai & NOT A.I. | design

We all know iMovie, GarageBand, Keynote, and Pages, but maybe here are some others you may not have heard about:

1. Lumosity

Lumosity is a brain training app that helps users improve their cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, flexibility, and problem-solving. It offers a range of fun and challenging games and exercises that are designed to boost brain function. It’s free to download, but users can subscribe to unlock additional features and games.

2. Quizlet

Quizlet is a flashcard app that allows users to create their own study materials, or use those created by other users. It also offers a variety of study modes such as matching, multiple choice, and fill in the blank, as well as games like Quizlet Live. It’s a great tool for studying and memorization and is available for free.

3. Duolingo

Duolingo is a language learning app that offers courses in over 40 languages. It uses a gamified approach to learning, with fun exercises and quizzes that help users develop their reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. It’s free to download and use, but users can subscribe to unlock additional features such as offline access and an ad-free experience.

4. Khan Academy

Khan Academy is an educational app that offers free video lessons and exercises in a variety of subjects such as math, science, history, and more. It’s a great resource for students of all ages, as well as for teachers and parents looking to supplement their children’s learning. It’s completely free to use, and users can track their progress and earn badges as they complete exercises.

5. TED-Ed

TED-Ed is a learning app that offers a range of educational videos and lessons on a variety of topics such as science, history, and social studies. It’s a great tool for learners of all ages, and offers interactive quizzes and activities to help users reinforce their understanding of the material. It’s completely free to use and offers a great way to expand your knowledge on a range of subjects.

1. Lumosity – https://www.lumosity.com/en/
2. Quizlet – https://quizlet.com/
3. Duolingo – https://www.duolingo.com/
4. Khan Academy – https://www.khanacademy.org/
5. TED-Ed – https://ed.ted.com/

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays virtual objects onto the real world, creating a unique experience for users. While AR has many practical uses, it can also be used in weird and wonderful ways. Here are some weird ways to use AR with an iPad:

1. Make Your Food Come to Life

Have you ever wanted your food to come to life? With AR, you can make it happen! Download the “AR Food” app and point your iPad at your plate. The app will scan your food and create a 3D model of it. You can then use your iPad to interact with your food in strange and unusual ways.

2. Try on Virtual Clothes

Have you ever wanted to try on clothes without actually having to put them on? With AR, you can! Download the “AR Clothes” app and point your iPad at yourself. The app will create a virtual 3D model of your body, which you can then use to try on different virtual outfits. You can even change the colors and styles of the clothes to create a unique look.

3. Make Your Pets Talk

Have you ever wondered what your pets are thinking? With AR, you can make them talk! Download the “AR Pet” app and point your iPad at your pet. The app will create a 3D model of your pet and then allow you to make it talk using your own voice. You can also add funny hats and accessories to your pet to make it even more entertaining.

4. Create a Virtual Aquarium

Have you ever wanted to create your own aquarium but didn’t have the space or resources to do so? With AR, you can create a virtual aquarium! Download the “AR Aquarium” app and point your iPad at any flat surface. The app will create a virtual aquarium, complete with fish, plants, and other aquatic life. You can even interact with the fish by tapping on the screen.

5. Make Your Drawings Come to Life

Do you love to draw? With AR, you can make your drawings come to life! Download the “AR Drawing” app and use your iPad to draw a picture. The app will then turn your drawing into a 3D model that you can interact with using your iPad. You can even add special effects and animations to your drawing to make it even more interesting.

What are the most important advances in technology in education today?

1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI tools like personalised learning and predictive analytics are being used to enhance the learning experience.
2. Virtual and Augmented Reality: AR and VR are used in education to create immersive experiences and simulations.
3. Online Learning Platforms: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Khan Academy have made education accessible to a wider audience.
4. Learning Management Systems (LMS): LMS like Blackboard, Canvas, and Moodle are used by educators to manage their courses and provide resources to students.
5. Digital Textbooks and Interactive Resources: Electronic versions of textbooks, along with interactive tools and simulations, are replacing traditional print materials.
6. Collaborative Tools: Collaborative tools like Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams are allowing students and teachers to work together more effectively.
7. Adaptive Testing: Adaptive testing systems use data from student performance to provide real-time feedback and personalised learning experiences.

But more importantly, how are you as an educator harnessing these technologies?

Here are some of the best ideas:

1. Turn Your iPad into a Virtual Coloring Book

There are many free coloring apps available on the App Store that allow kids to color on their iPad using virtual coloring pages. However, you can also use your iPad and a stand to turn it into a virtual coloring book. Simply prop up your iPad on a stand or against a stack of books, and then place a sheet of white paper over the screen. Kids can then trace or draw their own pictures using the iPad screen as a lightbox.

2. Create Stop Motion Animations with Household Items

Kids can create their own stop motion animations using everyday household items such as toys, books, or even food. Using the iPad’s camera, kids can take a series of still images and then combine them using a free stop motion animation app such as Stop Motion Studio. This is a great way for kids to get creative and make their own movies using items they already have at home.

3. Turn Your iPad into a Virtual Aquarium

With a clear glass bowl or vase, kids can turn their iPad into a virtual aquarium. Simply fill the bowl with water and place it over the iPad’s screen. Then, download a free aquarium app such as “Aquarium Live HD” and watch as virtual fish swim around in the water. This is a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about sea life.

4. Create Virtual 3D Models of Home Furnishings

Using the free IKEA Place app, kids can create virtual 3D models of furniture and home furnishings in their own room. This app uses AR technology to allow kids to place virtual items in their room and see how they would look in real life. Kids can experiment with different furniture and home decor items and get a sense of how they would fit in their space.

5. Create Virtual Art with a Microwave

Believe it or not, a microwave can be used to create virtual art! With a plain white coffee mug and some permanent markers, kids can create their own designs on the mug. Then, place the mug in the microwave for 30 seconds on high. The heat from the microwave will cause the ink to spread and create a unique and colorful design. Kids can then use the iPad’s camera to take a picture of the mug and turn it into a virtual work of art using a free art app such as Sketchbook.