The modern education landscape is diversified and rich with different app types that cater to different target audiences. Language learning apps, learning management system (LMS) apps, classroom education apps, online courses apps, exam preparation apps, and educational apps for kids are all popular app types.
The demand for eLearning apps is growing due to the influx of immigrants, hybrid work settings, and the need for employees to stay marketable. Technologies such as virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR), artificial intelligence (AI), gamification, microtraining, video streaming, and social functionality are all reshaping the eLearning market.
Duolingo, GoToTraining, Coursera, BYJU’S Exam Prep, ABCmouse.com, Merge EDU, ELSA Speak, and Quizlet are all prominent examples of educational apps. These apps offer different features and monetization models, such as subscriptions, premium plans, ads, and paid programs, to generate revenue.
Trends in eLearning App Development
By 2022, the use of virtual and augmented reality in eLearning is projected to increase substantially, as technological advances continue to redefine the digital learning field.
Virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR)
The extended reality (XR) markets of virtual (VR) and augmented (AR) reality are estimated to expand by $162.71 billion between 2020 and 2025. AR and VR are revolutionizing physical and digital education by allowing for personalized learning experiences, visualization, and immersive learning. For instance, the Merge EDU app utilizes XR technologies to provide STEM learning experiences through 3D navigation and simulations.
Artificial intelligence (AI)
Intelligent algorithms have been increasingly utilized in many aspects of our lives, with the education market projected to reach $3.68 billion by 2023. AI technology has enabled apps to automate record-keeping, grading, produce customized advice, and respond to queries through bots. ELSA Speak is an app that is based on AI speech recognition. When audio is inputted, the app evaluates the user’s English pronunciation and fluency and immediately provides detailed feedback.
Gamification
The use of gamification in app development enables creators to make the educational experience more fun and dynamic. This technology allows app developers to turn the boring task of learning into an entertaining journey full of rewards. Research has shown that brains create new neural pathways faster when using game-based learning. When app users experience levels, progress bars, leaderboards, and other gamification elements, it encourages them to continue learning. Popular educational apps like Quizlet use gamification to make complex information more manageable and make the learning process more enjoyable.
Microtraining
Microlearning is a method of training which provides knowledge in small manageable chunks so that it can be more easily understood by users. It is also more engaging and enjoyable than larger chunks of information since it is simpler to comprehend. Popular examples of this approach include Duolingo, Word of the Day, and flashcard apps.
Video streaming
In 2019, the world went into lockdowns due to the coronavirus pandemic, and with this came a surge in popularity of video streaming. In response, various eLearning applications incorporated this technology to help teachers reach beyond the traditional classroom. By 2021, the market had grown to a value of $988 million and is projected to increase to $4290 million by 2028.
One main factor contributing to the growth of video streaming is the direct interaction between the audience and the streamer that creates a more personal approach to teaching. This capability has enabled remote studying and provided increased accessibility to education. In addition, platforms such as Vimeo and Dacast are designed for streaming and provide an interactive learning experience.
Social functionality
Digital education is enhanced through social features that enable users to connect and interact with the app, as well as to share their experiences with other people. Apps can be integrated with social media so users can join quickly and post their progress. Profiles can be customized, so users can be identified and app owners can access useful information. Furthermore, live chat support and push notifications can heighten engagement and make each connection more personal.
Creating Educational Apps: Step by Step
To bring an educational mobile app development to fruition, it is essential to go through a consistent, iterative process. This will help to ensure the development of a successful solution. It is important to understand the different stages involved in the creation of this type of app, so as to ensure its successful implementation.
Step 1: Choose your niche: Pre-planning is the most critical stage before app development. This phase involves a detailed market and competitor analysis that helps you choose the right development direction. This will help you identify opportunities to set up your project for success.
Step 2: Shape the concept and define the features: During this stage, you and your app development team will outline project requirements and create a list of must-have features and requirements that will become the foundation of the project.
Step 3: Design compelling UI/UX: This stage involves UI/UX designers creating a user interface that is aesthetically pleasing and has easily discoverable components and a smooth user experience. It is important to consider the age group and cognitive abilities of the users.
Step 4: Choose a development approach: This stage requires choosing a viable tech stack and assembling a development team with the right skills. The technological choice should be based on the application’s specs, including its complexity and time to market.
Step 5: Estimate time and cost: You need to calculate the cost of the project, which is based on the scope and number of features to be developed. You should also consider the pricing model that fits your resources and project requirements.
Step 6: Develop a minimum viable product (MVP): This step involves building an MVP, which is an early version of the product with just the must-have features. This allows you to test your hypotheses without excessive development costs.
Step 7: Improve and support your educational app: This stage involves the maintenance of your application to ensure it is always running to the best of its abilities. It covers regular feature updates, emergency resolution and audits for iOS and Android.
How to Make an Educational App: Core Features
Signup and login are essential features for eLearning apps for students to set up their profiles and track their progress. The user profile should include basic information and a profile picture, as well as details such as the number of purchased courses, billing details, etc. Search bars and filters should be included to help students easily find educational content, plus a recommendation engine may be useful to suggest relevant courses and content. If the app is based on paid subscriptions or courses, a payment gateway such as PayPal should be integrated with additional options such as Google Pay and Apple Pay. Push notifications may be utilized to re-engage users and inform them of updates or challenges, and a dashboard should be set up to track their learning progress. Learning materials should be categorized for easy navigation, and cloud integration and cross-platform support should be adopted to ensure users can access the app from any device or platform.
For teachers registration and login are necessary as well to access their accounts and enjoy the benefits of the eLearning app. The admin panel should provide teachers with an overview of their duties, student attendance, grades, and progress. Notifications should be sent when assignments are completed, exams taken, and new students enrolled. Test creating tools should be available for educators to create online tests, distribute them, and evaluate the results. Lastly, live sessions should be held to host interactive lessons through video streaming, with the ability to chat and communicate via video and audio.
Let’s join forces and make a difference!
If you are ready to take advantage of the opportunity to make an impact in the eLearning market, now is the ideal time to reach out to us. We can collaborate and create an effective, competitive educational application. Let’s work together and make a real difference!
Comments are closed