Abstract
Children’s increasing use of educational apps is driven by the perceived benefits recognized by parents and educators, particularly with the widespread availability of smartphones. However, there is a significant shortage of apps tailored for children aged 9 to 12. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify high-quality, free educational apps available for children aged 9 to 12 and examine the engagement strategies these apps use to enhance learning. The Google Play Store was searched using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. An initial search identified 239 apps, of which five apps were deemed eligible. The in-depth evaluation of the eligible apps was conducted using information available on the Google Play Store and within the apps themselves. The study identified five free educational apps that can be used by parents and educators to support children’s learning. Animations, gamification, quizzes, flashcards, and interactive books and songs were utilized as engagement strategies among these apps. The study offers valuable insights for parents, educators, app developers, and researchers. It provides parents with options for free educational apps that balance entertainment and educational value. Educators can use these apps in the classroom or recommend them to parents to support children’s learning. Developers and researchers can utilize engagement strategies to design apps that meaningfully engage children. Future research should investigate the long-term educational impacts of using these apps.
Presenters
Anila ViraniAssistant Professor, Nursing, Thompson Rivers University, British Columbia, Canada Lukhvir Johal
Student, Bacholors of Science in Nurisng, Thompson Rivers University , British Columbia, Canada
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Educational Apps, Children Aged 9-12, Digital Learning, Engagement Strategies
