What Are The Best Learning Apps?

by TeachThought Staff

Choosing the right learning app really comes down to your educational goals and preferred learning style. Different applications offer unique approaches: some provide structured lessons with practice exercises, others encourage exploration of the natural world or creative projects. This compilation includes both mobile and web-based apps, so keep in mind that features might vary across platforms.

We've curated a selection of apps aimed at delivering engaging content, accessibility, and distinct educational benefits. Rather than ranking these tools, the order in which they're presented is primarily for organization. As pricing and access terms can frequently change, always confirm the details with the app provider before making recommendations to students or signing up for services.

1. Khan Academy

This free educational platform covers a wide array of subjects, including math, science, and humanities.

• The app features concise explanations and practice problems, making it a great resource for reinforcing understanding of specific concepts.
• Students can track their learning progress across devices, and teachers can assign tasks to monitor student challenges.

Access: Available on the web and both iOS and Android platforms through the official download link.

2. Brilliant

Brilliant shifts the traditional learning paradigm by teaching math, coding, and science through hands-on problems rather than traditional lectures.

• Interactive visual puzzles and immediate feedback allow learners to actively engage with the material.
• This app is ideal for those who prefer conceptual understanding, but full access requires a paid subscription.

Access: Accessible on the web and through iOS and Android via their official site.

3. Khan Academy Kids

Aimed at early learners ages 2 to 8, this free app offers a range of interactive activities in reading and mathematics.

• This platform is designed for family and teacher use, featuring activities that are engaging for young children.
• While learning activities are free for families, school-level resources have specific terms.

Access: Available on iOS and Android platforms via the provided link.

4. PBS KIDS Games

This app introduces educational games themed around beloved PBS characters, focusing on subjects like math, reading, and science.

• Its games are excellent for fostering hands-on play, making it a preferable option compared to PBS KIDS' separate video app.
• These games encourage developmental skills in preschool and elementary-age children.

Access: Available for both iOS and Android; various games can also be accessed through web browsers.

5. BrainPOP

BrainPOP provides quick, engaging animated lessons paired with quizzes covering a variety of schooling subjects.

• This platform can serve as an introductory tool for new topics, paving the way for deeper exploration.
• Be aware that access depends on the type of account you have, either through a school or a subscription.

Access: Primarily web-based, though current mobile options can be checked on their official site.

6. IXL

IXL specializes in targeted exercises covering subjects like mathematics and language arts.

• Its curriculum is extensive, making it ideal for learners needing to focus on specific topics.
• The interface adapts questions based on user performance to enhance the learning experience, but be aware that the subscription offerings do differ.

Access: Offered on both web and mobile platforms, available at their official site.

7. Desmos Graphing Calculator

This tool allows users to visualize mathematical concepts through graphing equations and manipulating functions.

• With its interactive features, learners can conduct experiments, altering variable values to see real-time effects on graphs.
• This can be particularly helpful in making predictions and testing outcomes in a math class.

Access: Can be used on web, iOS, and Android; start with the linked official page.

8. PhET Interactive Simulations

PhET’s offerings include a range of free science and math simulations developed by the University of Colorado Boulder.

• These interactive tools let learners tweak variables to observe different outcomes in various scientific models.
• Additional resources like teacher notes help frame these simulations as investigative experiences.

Access: Free on the web; check for offline and mobile options linked on their site.

9. Scratch

Scratch allows users to delve into programming through a user-friendly block-based coding interface.

• Creating projects encourages planning, testing, and iteration, all vital skills in coding.
• Users can also share their work with a community, fostering collaboration and remixing of ideas, but parental oversight may be necessary for younger users.

Access: Primarily accessible on the web; offline editing is available for certain desktop systems and Android tablets, but there's no official iOS version.

10. Botanapp (Botan)

Botan facilitates plant identification and care through simple photo uploads that yield information about species.

• By providing plant care tips and problem-solving features, it enhances outdoor exploration and garden education.
• The app can guide users in verifying their identification against other resources, especially for potentially harmful plants.

Access: Available on web, iOS, and Android; free and premium options may differ.

11. Seek by iNaturalist

Seek aids in the identification of plants, animals, and fungi during outdoor adventures.

• With a user-friendly camera function, it offers real-time identifications and surrounding organism info.
• Incorporating observation challenges can enrich hikes or field trips, enhancing critical thinking.

Access: Compatible with iOS and Android via the linked official page.

12. Merlin Bird ID

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Merlin Bird ID app assists users in identifying birds through visual attributes and sounds.

• The Sound ID functionality is particularly useful for birdwatchers keen to differentiate species based on what they hear.
• Photo identification narrows down options, complemented by details regarding location, season, and distinguishing marks.

Access: iOS and Android through the provided link.

13. Epic

Epic serves as a digital library for young readers, offering a wide range of ebooks and audiobooks.

• The extensive selection enables children to explore various subjects and types of literature beyond their classroom collections.
• It's important to note that access varies for teachers and families, so familiarize yourself with each account type's reading limitations.

Access: Web, iOS, and Android through the linked official site.

14. Libby

Libby makes borrowing ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines from public libraries convenient with just a library card.

• This means that access to a vast catalog is available without the need for an audiobook subscription, though availability can be subject to lending restrictions.
• Given its features like reading settings and audio controls, it’s tailored for a seamless reading experience.

Access: Web, iOS, and Android through the provided link; you will need a library card to borrow.

15. Duolingo

Duolingo’s language-learning model revolves around short, manageable lessons that emphasize vocabulary and grammar.

• With activities that include listening and speaking tasks, developing a routine becomes straightforward.
• However, to gain practical language skills, you’ll want to complement this app with real-world conversation opportunities.

Access: Available on web, iOS, and Android through the official site; both free and paid versions exist.

16. Babbel

Babbel offers structured lessons that center around practical vocabulary and conversational phrases suitable for various situations.

• Lessons are designed to build upon everyday scenarios instead of rote memorization, enhancing retention.
• Course lengths can differ based on the target language, so examining each language's specifics is advisable before subscribing.

Access: Available on web, iOS, and Android; primarily subscription-based services.

17. Quizlet

Quizlet is a versatile study tool that allows users to create and find flashcards for various topics.

• By generating their own sets, learners actively engage with material in a contextual manner.
• Different practice methods are available, but verifying the accuracy of shared sets can be essential before use.

Access: Web, iOS, and Android via the official site; note that some features may require payment.

18. Anki

Anki employs a flashcard system designed to prompt review based on how likely a learner is to forget a particular card.

• This approach works particularly well for subjects that necessitate long-term retention, like medical or language terminology.
• However, crafting effective flashcards requires a significant investment of time; while AnkiMobile is paid, the AnkiDroid variant for Android is free.

Access: Desktop and web options are available, alongside iOS and Android apps; the official page lists more details.

19. Book Creator

Book Creator empowers educators and students to produce digital books that incorporate various media formats.

• This app can be used to explain concepts, document projects, or share stories with an audience.
• Be aware that while a free teacher account has limitations on library size, collaboration features are worth exploring before sharing student content.

Access: Available via browser-based platforms and an iPad app; check the official site for full compatibility details.

20. iCivics

iCivics leverages games and simulations to educate users on civic operations and government systems.

• Students engage in role-playing scenarios that mimic real-world civic responsibilities, such as managing elections or legislation.
• Coupled with guided discussions or written reflections, this platform can deepen understanding of civic principles.

Access: Mainly web-based, though some games may offer tablet options as detailed on their respective pages.

21. Coursera

Coursera collaborates with universities and organizations to curates online courses and educational programs.

• You can find a mix of videos, readings, and assignments, with options for pursuing certificates for more involved learning paths.
• Since access to materials and certification varies per course, reviewing the enrollment details is key.

Access: Available on web, iOS, and Android through the official website.

22. edX

edX provides online courses across academic and professional disciplines offered by various institutions.

• Many courses feature an audit option, so learners can engage with the material without obtaining a verified certificate, but parameters differ by course.
• The mobile app allows access to course videos and tracks progress; note that some assessments may require browser-based completion.

Access: Web, iOS, and Android through the official site.

23. MasterClass

MasterClass is a subscription service featuring video lessons taught by acclaimed professionals across various fields.

• Its focus lies in providing a window into the thought processes and techniques of experts, offering a form of creative and professional development.
• While the expert lessons are inspiring, practical application beyond viewing is essential for true skill acquisition.

Access: Available on web, iOS, and Android; subscription is required for full access.

24. Solar System Sim

This iOS app serves as a sandbox environment for exploring celestial bodies and understanding gravitational dynamics.

• Users can manipulate the simulated environment to observe how different variables affect movement and mass interactions.
• While it encourages experimentation, it’s important to differentiate between exploratory play and scientific accuracy.

Access: iPhone and iPad only, available via the App Store link; free to download with optional in-app purchases.

25. NASA’s Eyes

This browser-based tool allows users to explore the solar system and view real-time data from NASA missions.

• Users can follow ongoing missions and visualize spacecraft positions within a 3D model.
• It’s beneficial to pair this tool with research questions to enhance understanding of mission objectives and data interpretation.

Access: No download needed; open in any web browser.

26. GLOBE Observer

GLOBE Observer encourages citizen engagement in science by allowing users to document environmental changes.

• The app provides structured protocols for observing various environmental data, making it suitable for collaborative projects.
• Encouraging students to reflect on their observations can deepen their understanding of data reliability and research methodologies.

Access: Available on iOS and Android; some features need location services and camera access.

27. OneZoom

This interactive platform visualizes the relationships within the tree of life, showcasing species connections in an engaging way.

• Users can zoom in on specific branches to learn about evolutionary history and classification.
• The tool is particularly effective for dissecting concepts like common ancestry and species classification.

Access: Available through web browsers, including many mobile devices.

28. Polypad

Polypad provides a digital workspace filled with math manipulatives, allowing students to visually explore concepts.

• The ability to create and modify representations of mathematical ideas fosters deeper understanding.
• Teachers can design tasks in areas like geometry and algebra to share with the class using this platform.

Access: Available on the web for free.

29. GeoGebra 3D Calculator

GeoGebra’s 3D Calculator enables students to create and manipulate geometric shapes and graphs in three dimensions.

• This interactivity aids in developing spatial awareness, particularly in geometry and higher-level math.
• It encourages users to test hypotheses by visualizing how shape modifications impact relationships.

Access: Web, iOS, and Android options are available; check the official download page for current software.

30. The Human Body by Tinybop

This interactive model invites children to explore human body systems through interactive touch elements.

• Users can learn about concepts like digestion and circulation through exploratory cause-and-effect scenarios.
• The open exploration format encourages questions and discussions, particularly with adult observations guiding the experience.

Access: Available on iOS and Android; the purchase terms depend on the version purchased.

31. DragonBox Algebra 12+

This app transforms algebra learning into engaging visual puzzles, easing the entry into formal notation.

• By balancing elements and solving puzzles, learners grasp foundational algebra concepts without rote memorization.
• It’s primarily an algebra-focused tool that may not encompass broader mathematics curricula—check subscription details before enrollment.

Access: Available on iOS and Android from the official product page.

32. Musicca

Musicca provides a suite of interactive exercises aimed at explaining music theory and notation skills.

• By practicing concepts like note identification and rhythm, users receive instantaneous feedback on their progress.
• While virtual instruments help bridge the gap between notation and sound, learning to play an actual instrument provides invaluable experience.

Access: Accessible via web browsers; the core exercises are available for free.

33. Zooniverse

Zooniverse connects volunteers with academic projects that require classification of images or data transcription.

• With a broad range of disciplines to choose from, learners can witness firsthand how research data is generated.
• When selecting a project, consider the learner's age and relevant reading proficiency, as availability can vary across the mobile app.

Access: Web, iOS, and Android; check the official project directory to begin exploring.

34. Radio Garden

Radio Garden turns the globe into an interactive tool for discovering live radio stations worldwide.

• By navigating between cities, users can immerse themselves in diverse cultures, languages, and music.
• Listening to simultaneous broadcasts offers an opportunity to compare content from different regions, fostering curiosity and context recognition.

Access: Available via web, iOS, and Android; be cautious of potentially uncurated content.

35. Explore.org Live Cams

Explore.org streams live feeds from wildlife habitats, allowing users to observe nature in real-time.

• Regular viewing can enhance understanding of animal behaviors, local conditions, and seasonal changes.
• Encouraging learners to log their observations or pose questions can transform casual viewing into an active learning process.

Access: Reachable via web browsers; availability of live feeds may vary.

Ultimately, the ideal app may range from a one-off educational simulation to an extensive library service. To select the best option, begin with the learning objectives, age of the learner, and the kind of interaction the app provides.

Related reading: The Best Education Apps for Android. This separate resource highlights Android options, while the above entries encompass tools available on various platforms.