Final + Rationale

My app is for intermediate level maths education, for ages 10-13. The subjects covered would be basic addition, subtraction, multiplication and division all the way to algebra and quadratic equations. The overall styling for the app was inspired by flat design, the colours I chose while being bright, vibrant and fun were not childish. The layout is a simple two column grid composition. The app covers lessons and testing of each subject, more subjects will be unlocked when the user completes the pre-requisites. The user submitted content is based around user being able to make their own tests. These tests will be downloadable through the User Equations section, completing other users tests will result in additional points. For awards, users unlock two different sets of trophies; The first set to be unlocked by completing the default lessons and completing the accompanying test. The other set is unlocked when the user creates tests, has people download ad complete their tests.

splash page

lesson page

skill tree

test page

test creation page

The jquery script used calculator used on create content page

In terms of marketing a majority of other educational apps, are aimed at a far younger demographic, usually around 3-8. My app aims at an older demographic, 10-13. My maths app also has the potential for expansion into other levels of education, or even other subjects.

testing app on mobile device

Testing the apps functionality on a mobile device. No major problems with the app itself, however some minor changes to the margins had to be made.

Wireframe and potential icons for trophies

The final wireframe of my maths education app, along with the trophies that can be unlocked.

Chosen Idea: Educational Mathemathics app

The app idea I have decided to pursue is the maths learning app. I am looking to create a simple educational system directed at children anywhere from ages 7-12, with the potential for expansion. The process will be divided into lessons, which will give a demonstration or explanation of what will be required, followed by the user actively doing some equations. To entice the user to complete the lessons and encourage them to continue, a reward system will need to be in place.

The reward system will be similar to that found in many games. The user upon first using the app will be at the bottom of a skill tree, comprised of all the lessons that can be done. Lessons will need to be completed in a sequence to unlock further lessons, or unlocked with a points system. To be awarded after the completion of a lesson or test.

This system of learning in a simplified gaming setting has proven to be very popular and effective with apps like duolingo.

initial Ideas for apps

Initial App research

Education apps

A big potential for apps, I think is in schools and education. In recent studies done by the AVG Digital Diaries, it was revealed that 66% of children between the ages of three and five can go on to the internet and play a video game, 47% of the age group can competently use a smart phone. However 14% of the children can't even tie their own shoelaces, and 23% of these children can't swim.

-http://www.computerweekly.com/news/2240213733/Children-more-skilled-at-using-smartphones-than-tying-shoes

-http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/9122180/Schoolchildren-can-use-an-iPhone-but-cannot-tie-their-shoelaces-poll-finds.html

Apps like;

Hubble Space Telescope Discoveries

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/hubble-space-telescope-discoveries/id588428410?mt=11

Khan Academy

https://itunes.apple.com/nz/app/khan-academy/id469863705?mt=8

Teaching with Technology Video library

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/teaching-technology-video/id460913574?mt=8

Science House

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/videoscience/id333284085?mt=8

All focus on education and the accessibility of knowledge. These apps use simple interfaces which typically revolve around video, or small easy to read sections of text. 

The other areas were I think apps particularly stand out is in business, things like the Trade Me app and the Amazon app. Have similar aspects to the education apps, in the sense that they bring something to the individual anywhere they can access their phone.