As we close out 2024, MAD-learn is reflecting on a milestone-filled year, including celebrating our 10th anniversary of empowering students through mobile app development! Having reached this impressive milestone earlier in the year, we’ve been able to help thousands of students around the world become APPreneurs, honing their computer science, creativity, and critical thinking skills. 2024 has been a year of innovation, with several exciting upgrades to our platform, including the introduction of two game-changing features: AI Assist and Analytics. These tools are designed to support both students and teachers in new, dynamic ways, making learning more accessible, personalized, and impactful than ever before.
At MAD-learn, we’re all about inclusivity, recognizing that each student brings unique strengths and challenges to the table. We introduced the AI Assist feature to help level the playing field, making learning more accessible for students of all abilities. This tool is integrated into the Ideate phase of MAD-learn’s design-thinking program and is designed to assist students who might struggle with executive functioning or need a little extra boost when it comes to brainstorming and refining their app ideas.
For students who find themselves stuck or overwhelmed during the ideation process, the AI Assist feature is a game-changer. By simply entering a question or prompt, students can receive immediate, tailored suggestions to help them expand or refine their app ideas. Whether it’s adding more functionality, improving user experience, or exploring creative possibilities, AI Assist is there to guide them along the way.
What makes this feature even more powerful is that teachers have full control over when and how to use it. The AI Assist can be toggled on or off based on the needs of each class, allowing educators to tailor the learning experience to their students’ progress and needs. This flexibility ensures that AI becomes a powerful tool to foster creativity and innovation, while still maintaining the teacher’s role in guiding the learning process.
Teachers have always been at the heart of MAD-learn’s mission. We listen closely to their feedback and continuously strive to make their experience as smooth and efficient as possible. This year, we’ve made it easier than ever for teachers to track student progress and engagement through our brand-new Analytics feature.
We know that data is an invaluable tool in the classroom, and after receiving requests from educators, we introduced an intuitive Analytics module. Now, teachers can access vital information with just a few clicks. By logging into their MAD-learn account, teachers can instantly view a wide range of data, from app creation trends to student participation metrics. This feature allows educators to monitor which students are excelling, which might need extra help, and which aspects of the program are being used the most.
The Analytics dashboard provides an overview of key trends, including:
- The types of apps students are creating
- The most popular features being implemented
- A breakdown of student activity and progress
- Insights into how educators are using MAD-learn in their classrooms
These insights allow teachers to make data-driven decisions, personalize learning experiences, and offer timely interventions. It’s the perfect companion to ensure that every student gets the support they need to succeed, while also celebrating their achievements.
As we celebrate a decade of growth, innovation, and impact, we’re more excited than ever about the future. MAD-learn’s commitment to supporting both students and educators is stronger than ever, and we’re just getting started. Our AI Assist and Analytics features are just the beginning of what’s to come. In the next year, we’re committed to continuing to evolve, listening to feedback, and making sure that both teachers and students have the best tools at their disposal to thrive in a digital-first world.
Thank you to all the educators, students, schools, and school districts who have been part of our journey. Here’s to another year of creativity, innovation, and learning!