iPad version: Link / Web version: Link / Cost: Free
Quick overview: An iPad app that allows students to create their own sets of flashcards to be used as a study aid.
How can it be used in an individualized classroom? Ask a student to come up with about 10-20 flashcards (i.e. – both question and answers) around a topic you are covering in class. Next, work together in order to validate whether the flashcards are correct or not. The student can then practice with the flashcards in class or at home. For classrooms without iPads, Brainscape is available on the web too! (Source: Sandra Piperni, Readaption Officer at ACCESS St-Lambert)
How can it be used in small groups? Do you have access to more than one iPad in your classroom? If you are interested in exploring a collaborative, student centered activity, place your students into small groups and provide each group with an iPad. Each group would be responsible in creating 10-20 flashcards around a particular topic. Once complete, ask each group to exchange iPads so they can try out the other students’ flashcards. Alternatively, you can connect iPads to the class projector (with an Apple VGA adapter) to discuss and validate the sets with the whole class.
Does this type of activity challenge the students? While I generally prefer to highlight apps that focus on higher order thinking skills, this app is a great fit for students who need help memorizing core concepts, grammar, etc. I believe that asking the student to come up with both the questions and answers provides a better understanding of the material and a higher chance they’ll retain the information.
