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Critical thinking apps for students.

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Classroom technology, 10 critical thinking apps for students, last updated 25 november 2023/ by zineb djoub.

Developing students’ critical thinking has become a must in a world where smart decisions matter for people to thrive. However, sustaining critical minds may not be an attainable goal for many teachers, since it requires students’ engagement and commitment to learning. Indeed, students need relevant and interesting learning tasks that spark their curiosity in thinking and producing. Educational technologies can support teachers in creating more engaging and thought-provoking content for their students. There is a variety of critical thinking apps that encourage students to think through planning, making decisions and choices, collaborating, creating, expressing their voices, sharing them, discussing others’ ideas, and reflecting on their learning.

Here is a list of 10 Critical Thinking Apps that you can use with your students in class, no matter what subject you’re teaching.

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1. Book Creator

An engaging app with a variety of uses that gets students using critical thinking and organization skills. Students can brainstorm, plan, and write their own stories, communicating their ideas using multimedia elements.

They can also create their own projects, take pictures doing different activities, and record themselves. Besides, Book Creator can be used as a portfolio tool to collect students’ work and reflect on it. It’s available for both iPad and the web (including Chrome). To learn more, read about 50 ways to use Book Creator in your classroom.

2. Notability

A thought-provoking tool that supports students to combine handwriting and photos using a wide range of note-taking and sketching tools: Students can annotate PDFs, make shapes, highlight, move objects around, add audio, integrate photos and web clips, and more. This is only available for iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

3. Kidblog  

A free blogging platform intended primarily for kids to create their content with the help of their teacher. Teachers and students can create conversations on the web and students can also leave comments on other students’ pages. Teachers need to set up an account for their entire class to start using this platform.

4. Ideament

Students can easily draw a diagram (mind map, concept map, or flowchart), convert it to a text outline, and vice versa. They can also brainstorm new ideas, illustrate concepts, make lists and outlines, plan presentations, create organizational charts, and more.

5. Lucidchart

This helps students to create on their iPad or iPhone different diagrams such as charts, mind maps, wireframes, and much more.

6. Ayoa (previously iMindMap)

A cloud-based work management tool that combines Mind Mapping with Task Management features. So, students using this app not only use mind mapping but can also store their work, collaborate with their classmates, track their task progress, and share their work with others.

7. Adobe Spark

This free online and mobile graphic design app helps create compelling animated videos in minutes. Students can get more creative by telling stories and sharing ideas using text, images, and video.

8. Explain Everything

An interesting interactive screen casting whiteboard that students can use to create video tutorials and explanatory guides to share with others. No additional software is required. So, they can record their movements, annotations, and voice, and then make edits using the timeline.

9. Spreaker

Asking students to create their own podcasts and share them with their teachers and classmates can be fun, interesting, and mostly a thought-provoking process.

You can ask them to work in pairs or individually, select a topic, create their own content, record themselves directly from their mobile device, and share this on the Internet using this app (on a class blog or any social platform you are connecting with your students). Students can share their comments, learn from each, and discuss their podcasts in the classroom.

10. TeleStory

T his is a video creation tool that provides students with a scene, face-detecting costumes, cue cards, and special effects and lets them create their own themed TV shows. To create their story, there are themes that kids can choose from, then they select a scene and cue card.

After creating their story, they name it, save it in the app, and share it via ToonTube. This can stimulate their thinking as their choices and creativity are called upon.

What other apps would you suggest to develop students’ critical thinking? I’d love to learn from you.

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Gone are the days where children were expected to memorize facts and recite them at any given time. Instead, it is hoped that children will develop critical thinking skills so that they can analyze situations, think about different outcomes, and present well-reasoned conclusions. To help children develop critical thinking skills, there are some apps, tools, and resources. Here is a list of the top seven.

• Guess the Code

While this app is presented as a game, it is actually a great way for children to look at patterns and sequences, and try to figure them out. The app generates different color combinations, and it is up to the user to decipher the pattern and enter the next color.

• SimplePhysics

Physics can be a daunting subject, but the new way of approaching it makes physics more of a hands-on subject that gets students to engage in problem-solving actively. SimplePhysics provides games and puzzles that test the limits of students’ critical thinking skills.

• A Clockwork Brain

This app has a range of games in such categories as memory, attention, language, reasoning, and dexterity. Critical thinking is strengthened as children must work quickly to solve the problems before moving on to more challenging puzzles.

• Civilization VI

Now in its sixth iteration, this modern computer game is not just fun; it’s actually a place for children (and adults) to use the full extent of their imagination and critical thinking skills. The game starts with the dawn of humans, and it is up to the player to help them achieve civilization through each time period. Users must decide what it takes for a culture to evolve and this is no easy task.

• Whooo’s Reading

One of the most important steps in the journey towards critical thinking is the ability to read and interact with books. Reading is more than just memorizing letter combinations. It is about understanding the motive behind characters and the importance of setting. It is about connecting plot developments with real life and making connections between the two. To help students engage more when reading, Whooo’s Reading is a program that works to connect books at a deeper level. As a result of this program, students often increase their love of reading and as a bonus, do better on reading exams.

Social media has become pervasive in today’s culture, and while platforms like Twitter and Instagram can lead to more harm than good for most youth, social media can be used to an educator’s advantage. Edmodo provides a platform for students and teachers to engage in collaborative projects that help to foster creative thinking skills. It is a tool that can be used to bring students’ ideas together.

• Highlights Every Day

This app is a nostalgic treat for anyone that eagerly awaited their monthly Highlights magazine subscription. Updated for today’s technological world, Highlights Every Day is an app that features engaging puzzles, stories, and videos.

Critical thinking should be fostered because it creates students who actively engage in the world around them. It prepares children for a world where they will become adults and will need to navigate life. Critical thinking skills can be developed in fun, creative settings through the use of these apps, tools, and resources.

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Free Learning Apps to Help Students Develop Critical Thinking

We are excited to share two new learning apps in development for teachers. These educational apps are available for use now through any browser and have been created to assist in developing critical thinking in students. They are also ideal for parents, or anyone interested in learning about logical fallacies.

The apps are Foolacy and FactOpy. Both apps are in Beta Preview to get suggestions, find bugs and expand content.

As an early adopter you can contribute while teaching kids critical thinking.  Before we present these educational tools and resources, let us first review why teaching these concepts to kids is so important. The study of critical thinking and logical fallacies equip anyone of any age to ask questions before they make a statement of fact or form an opinion about a subject.

It’s easy for us to look at the world five hundred years ago and ridicule a societies lack of knowledge about science, the world and our place the universe. But let’s not be too hasty to look down on past cultures for their naivety.  We have enough problems of our own.  Our world today is very polarized and divisive. One could argue that this is due to a lack of training in critical thinking and even less teaching about logical fallacies.

Critical Thinking

Critical thinking is essential for research to make an informed decision. It evaluates multiple sources of information objectively. Critical thinking is vital to make kids better global citizens. It empowers them to be sounder in their thinking and strong in their ability to distinguish between what is proven and that which is unfounded.

Logical Fallacies

Separate from critical thinking, but still related, logical fallacies are mistaken beliefs based on unsound arguments. While critical thinking equips one with the necessary tools to evaluate information, a study of common types of logical fallacies can enable those who wish to persuade an audience.  This is done by using the appearance of logic, which ends up in an incorrect conclusion.

Educational Tools that Engage Students

The new educational apps we’ve referenced were born out of a need to fill the gap for educators. There just isn’t much out there within this area of teaching.  The goal is to reach young minds before they develop insufficient methods of forming opinions about especially critical issues.

One  issue is that people do not read enough. This includes a lack of discipline by most to not gather information from multiple news sources when researching subjects. Beyond reading, we also need to develop critical thinking skills to properly reason for ourselves when facts to not seem clear.

These apps are safe and free to use.  Anyone can access them to educate themselves.  At the very core, they teach skills that provide proper thinking to solve any problem. Each app features a teacher login in order to assign tests.  There is no need for students to login to take the tests.

The first one is Foolacy . It teaches logical fallacies. The app has quizzes and drills to practice analyzing arguments. It has over seven hundred sample arguments. Foolacy solves the problem to the question:  Why Change Fallacies? It offers various levels of difficulty and includes themes such as Cherry Picking, Out of Context, Common Sense, Herd Mentality and Scare Tactics.  There are many more areas to explore.

What is fact and what is opinion? FactOpy provides a straightforward way to quiz your brain about how easily you can determine fact from opinion. One might think that FacOpy would not be a challenge for adults.  However, in today’s world of divided opinions and conspiracy therapies it is a good test for any age. It is a simple, yet powerful tool to help us develop our critical thinking skills, as well as teach younger minds.

While brain games are common for the development of children of all ages, it is not so clear how to teach critical thinking.   There are limited resources in this area, so these apps fill a great gap for teacher, as well as parents. It may also be beneficial to know what a child’s IQ score is, but a child’s IQ, even if lower than other, does not preclude anyone from learning critical thinking skills.

These learning apps were created by David Hundsness from Jupiter Ed .  He is also the founder of the Critical Thinking Project.

The Critical Thinking Project

Critical thinking is very important to make better decisions and to tell when someone is trying to manipulate us, such as a politician, salesman or ads in apps .  But how exactly do we teach that?  Skills in other subjects are clearly defined.  For example, in math you start with counting and work your way up.  However, the building blocks for critical thinking seem unclear. It’s not as simple as starting with a discussion with the goal of arriving at critical thinking, especially when you have a classroom of students – all with their own unique sets of preconceived notions.

The critical thinking and logical fallacies teaching featured in the Foolacy and FactOpy apps feature specific skills to help teach these concepts.

Critical thinking skills include;

• Correlation versus causation
• Assessing credibility and bias
• Understanding logical fallacies
• Detecting deceptive use of statistics
• Knowing the experimental method versus anecdotal evidence

For more information about critical thinking skills, visit criticalthinkingproject.org .  You’ll find more detail and data about critical thinking, as well as the development of free curriculum apps for specific skills.  The mission of this project is to improve K-12 instruction of critical thinking and logical fallacies. The launching of the learning apps introduced are an excellent way to begin for teachers in school and parents at home.

Kahoot is another free learning app designed to empower children at home or students in school. Teachers to engage children in a classroom by creating quiz questions. Up to 50 players can join in on the group game.  Paid versions offer additional tools, such as polls, puzzles, multi-select answers and personalized learning options.  Users can also access more learning apps.

Teachers using Kahoot are able to save combine progress monitoring with powerful play using technology that saves time. Simply find a Kahoot on the Discover page to use with students.  From there you can customize for your classroom.

There are also apps on the platform to advance math learning, learning to read through play, as well as language learning. Critical thinking skills can also be developed when students are allowed to create their own Kahoots.  Want to learn more about additional learning games .

Facts and Opinions

This video helps us understand the difference between facts and opinions. It’s also important to learn how to apply this knowldge.

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School Edition: Think!Think!

Thinkthink school edition - the award-winning critical thinking app thinkthink now made easier to use in the classroom ---------- - the app is an institutional product, not for individual consumers - a user id and password are needed to use the app - please contact through wonder lab’s homepage for information ◆what is ‘thinkthink for schools’？ thinkthink for schools is a special version of the thinkthink app adapted specifically to help schools and other educational institutions improve the learning experiences of their young students: - no restrictions on the number of plays and levels and making it easy for a whole class to play. - a teacher’s dashboard to keep track of students’ scores and play history. ◆what is ‘thinkthink’？ thinkthink is an educational app which utilises graphs, mazes, and other puzzles to both entertain young players and develop their critical thinking skills. it contains over 100 mini-games with over 15,000 questions. it focuses on 5 categories of critical thinking skills: spatial awareness, shape comprehension, trial and error, logic, numbers and calculation. all the mini games on thinkthink are 3 minutes long - meaning teachers have the freedom to tailor the length of the length of the thinkthink experience as needed. moreover the app responds to the pace at which each individual student answers questions within each game by tailoring the game difficulty accordingly. the app is designed by a team of educational research experts who also design content for the japan math olympics and global math challenge. we’ve utilised the knowhow and experience gained from teaching at our hanamaru private tutoring schools in japan to create a learning tool that both fosters students’ motivation to learn and their capacity for natural, independent thinking. thinkthink has been successfully introduced to classrooms both in and outside of japan, in collaboration with public educational authorities, and has received a lot of positive media attention as a result. ◆the thinkthink mission statement thinkthink is designed to, above all else, teach children to learn to love learning- by creating opportunities for them to experience success and to solve problems with complete independence- so that they eventually come to crave that ‘a-hah i got it’ feeling in their day to day lives. thinkthink isn’t just about completing puzzles, it’s about training players to see and understand much more about the world around them, showing them how to imagine the deeper meaning and broader connections in the information they receive - giving their train of thought and their self-confidence a turbo-boost ◆using thinkthink after signing up, you will be issued a student id and password download the app from microsoft store start the app and enter the student id and password you will be able to play any game on thinkthink at any level ◆privacy policy to improve our product and service, thinkthink collects usage data from students. student scores and progress will also be visible from the teacher’s dashboard. however, this data does not include any private or personally identifiable information. moreover, students’ usage data will not be shared with any third parties under any circumstances whatsoever. an administrator id and password necessary to access the teacher’s dashboard will be issued to every institution purchasing thinkthink for schools., 11/27/2020 8:50:51 am.

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Top 10 Critical Thinking Apps for Students

Think of your brain like a toolbox. Apps are kind of like those awesome multi-tools with everything you need, but for your mind! Wouldn’t it be awesome to have a set of digital tools designed to make you a master problem-solver, a logic champion, and a super creative brainstormer? That’s where critical thinking apps come in. Ready to level up your thinking skills? Let’s explore the best of the best!

Table of Contents

Why Critical Thinking Apps Matter?

Okay, I know what you might be thinking: “Critical thinking? Isn’t that just for super-serious grown-up stuff?” Nope! Critical thinking is how you analyze information, solve problems, and make smart decisions. It’s basically the secret weapon of successful students.

Think of it like this: school throws a ton of facts at you. Critical thinking is what helps you actually use all that knowledge and apply it to the real world.

How can critical thinking apps boost learning and grades?

• Deeper Understanding : These apps help you dig beneath the surface of what you’re learning, making connections that might not be obvious at first.
• Unlock Problem-Solving Skills : They give you a whole toolbox of strategies to analyze tricky situations and find creative solutions.
• Improved Decision Making : Critical thinking helps you weigh options and make informed choices – on homework assignments, in group projects, and even in your personal life.

Helpful Hint:

Critical thinking isn’t just about getting better grades (though it definitely helps!). It’s about becoming a more flexible, adaptable thinker, ready to tackle any challenge.

Top 10 Critical Thinking Apps: Our Picks

Ready to find the perfect app? Here’s a breakdown of factors to consider before hitting that download button:

• Age Group : Choose an app that aligns with your current school subjects and learning style. A super complex logic app might frustrate an elementary schooler, while a basic pattern game might bore a high school student.
• Skill Focus : Some apps target specific critical thinking skills like problem-solving, logic, reasoning, or creativity. Think about which area you want to strengthen first.
• Free vs. Paid : There are excellent critical thinking apps in both categories. Free versions are a great way to test the waters, and paid apps often offer expanded features or more in-depth challenges.

Age 5-8: Building the Blocks of Critical Thinking

These apps focus on foundational skills like observation, pattern recognition, and basic problem-solving, all wrapped in a fun and engaging package:

1. Think!Kids

This award-winning app uses adorable animations and interactive games to introduce young students to critical thinking concepts. Kids will sort shapes, solve puzzles, and complete silly challenges that get them thinking creatively. (Free trial; paid subscription available)

• Android: Think!Kids on Google Play Store .
• iPhone: Think!Kids on Apple App Store .

2. Loopy Logic Puzzles

These colorful brain teasers introduce basic logic and reasoning skills in a playful way. Kids will use visual clues to solve mazes, unscramble patterns, and complete sequences. (Free with in-app purchases)

iPhone: Link to Loopy Logic Puzzles on Apple App Store .

Helpful Stats: A study published in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology found that children who engaged in regular problem-solving activities scored higher on critical thinking assessments compared to those who did not.

Age 9-12: Leveling Up Thinking Skills

As kids enter middle school, the critical thinking challenges get a bit more complex. Here are some apps to match their growing minds:

3. Euclidea

This geometry game disguised as an app is a fantastic way to develop spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills. Players use logic and creativity to solve geometric puzzles that gradually increase in difficulty. (Free)

Link to the app website: euclidea.xyz iPhone: Link to Euclidea on Apple App Store .

4. CodyMaze

Coding meets critical thinking in this engaging app. Kids will use logic and step-by-step planning to guide a robot character through challenging mazes. This app is a great introduction to coding concepts while also strengthening critical thinking skills. (Free with in-app purchases)

• Android: Link to CodyMaze on Google Play Store .
• iPhone: Link to CodyMaze on Apple App Store .

5. Peak – Brain Games & Training

This app offers a fun mix of brain games that target various aspects of critical thinking, including problem-solving, memory, focus, and mental agility. Its vibrant visuals and personalized challenges make it engaging for this age group. (Free with premium subscription for additional features)

Android: Link to Peak on Google Play Store . iPhone: Link to Peak on Apple App Store .

Age 13 and Up: Critical Thinking for Teens

Teenagers are naturally curious and love a good challenge. These apps will push their critical thinking skills to the limit:

This science-backed brain training app offers a wide variety of exercises and games targeting multiple areas of cognitive function . Among its exercises, many promote critical thinking skills like problem-solving, logic, speed, and decision-making. (Free, with paid subscription for more extensive features)

Android: Link to BrainHQ on Google Play Store . iPhone: Link to BrainHQ on Apple App Store .

This mind mapping app is a fantastic tool for brainstorming, organizing ideas, and seeing the bigger picture. Teens can use it for school projects, study sessions, or just to explore their own creativity. (Free with paid upgrade options)

Link to the app website: Ayoa.com

8. Socratic by Google

This app uses real-world scenarios to pose thought-provoking questions and encourage critical thinking. Users can explore different viewpoints, analyze evidence, and develop strong arguments. (Free)

Android: Link to Socratic on Google Play Store . iPhone: Link to Socratic  on Apple App Store .

Stat: According to a study by Stanford University, students who regularly debated complex topics showed significant improvement in critical thinking skills compared to those who did not

9. DragonBox Elements

This award-winning game series cleverly combines logic puzzles with the basic principles of algebra. Players will solve increasingly complex challenges that require strategic thinking and creative problem-solving skills. (Free with in-app purchases for additional levels)

Link to the app website: dragonbox.com

10. Elevate

This app goes beyond critical thinking and offers a holistic brain-training experience. It includes games that target memory, processing speed, focus, and critical thinking. (Free with paid subscription for access to all features)

Link to the app website: elevateapp.com

Wrapping Up

Critical thinking skills are essential for success in today’s world. From schoolwork to future careers, the ability to analyze, problem-solve, and think outside the box will set you apart. Critical thinking apps offer a playful and interactive way to boost these valuable skills. Whether you’re a student or an adult seeking lifelong learning, don’t underestimate the power of enhancing your thinking toolkit. Start exploring, have fun, and let your mind stretch in unexpected ways!

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How to Make a Taoist Altar: 6 Steps

13 easy ways to attract a gemini man through text, 14 simple ways to get a boy back over text, how to treat scalp ringworm: 6 steps, 3 ways to pay bills without a checking account, 3 ways to sleep well with sinus troubles, 11 ways to attract a libra man as a gemini woman, how to get back an ex that you dumped, how to be a gymnast: 14 steps, 14 ways to overcome heartbreak, 7 must have apps, tools, and resources that develop critical thinking skills.

Gone are the days where children were expected to memorize facts and recite them at any given time. Instead, it is hoped that children will develop critical thinking skills so that they can analyze situations, think about different outcomes, and present well-reasoned conclusions. To help children develop critical thinking skills, there are some apps, tools, and resources. Here is a list of the top seven.

• Guess the Code

While this app is presented as a game, it is actually a great way for children to look at patterns and sequences, and try to figure them out. The app generates different color combinations, and it is up to the user to decipher the pattern and enter the next color.

• SimplePhysics

Physics can be a daunting subject, but the new way of approaching it makes physics more of a hands-on subject that gets students to engage in problem-solving actively. SimplePhysics provides games and puzzles that test the limits of students’ critical thinking skills.

• A Clockwork Brain

This app has a range of games in such categories as memory, attention, language, reasoning, and dexterity. Critical thinking is strengthened as children must work quickly to solve the problems before moving on to more challenging puzzles.

• Civilization VI

Now in its sixth iteration, this modern computer game is not just fun; it’s actually a place for children (and adults) to use the full extent of their imagination and critical thinking skills. The game starts with the dawn of humans, and it is up to the player to help them achieve civilization through each time period. Users must decide what it takes for a culture to evolve and this is no easy task.

• Whooo’s Reading

One of the most important steps in the journey towards critical thinking is the ability to read and interact with books. Reading is more than just memorizing letter combinations. It is about understanding the motive behind characters and the importance of setting. It is about connecting plot developments with real life and making connections between the two. To help students engage more when reading, Whooo’s Reading is a program that works to connect books at a deeper level. As a result of this program, students often increase their love of reading and as a bonus, do better on reading exams.

Social media has become pervasive in today’s culture, and while platforms like Twitter and Instagram can lead to more harm than good for most youth, social media can be used to an educator’s advantage. Edmodo provides a platform for students and teachers to engage in collaborative projects that help to foster creative thinking skills. It is a tool that can be used to bring students’ ideas together.

• Highlights Every Day

This app is a nostalgic treat for anyone that eagerly awaited their monthly Highlights magazine subscription. Updated for today’s technological world, Highlights Every Day is an app that features engaging puzzles, stories, and videos.

Critical thinking should be fostered because it creates students who actively engage in the world around them. It prepares children for a world where they will become adults and will need to navigate life. Critical thinking skills can be developed in fun, creative settings through the use of these apps, tools, and resources.

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A unique tool for teaching critical thinking

Kialo Edu is a custom version of Kialo ( kialo.com ), the world’s largest argument mapping and debate site, specifically designed for classroom use. Its clear, visually compelling format makes it easy to follow the logical structure of a discussion and facilitates thoughtful collaboration. Kialo’s mission is to promote well-reasoned discussion online, and to that end, Kialo is free for educators to use.

Use Kialo to help students get to the core of the issues they’re discussing

To put their knowledge into action

To sharpen their critical reasoning skills

To demonstrate their understanding

To engage constructively with each other

Take your classroom discussions online, break down complex subjects for students, and shake it up with new types of assignments.

What can you use Kialo for?

Host classroom debates.

Create discussions for your students, where they can put their knowledge into practice, develop their own views on classroom content, and consolidate what they’ve learned. In a Kialo discussion, every student has a voice – there’s no talking over each other, and students have the space to explore arguments at their own pace. Kialo’s collaborative platform encourages students to work together to find the best way to express each idea.

• See Sample Classroom Debate Assignment
• See Demo Classroom Debate

Assess learning

Assign students to write a Kialo discussion instead of an essay – or use Kialo discussions to outline larger writing projects. Kialo’s argument-tree structure leads students to consider counter-arguments, develop a logical outline of their argument, and visualize how their ideas fit together.

• See Sample Essay Outlining Assignment
• See Demo Essay Outline

Share knowledge

Write a discussion for your students to explore, and set out content in a clear and easy format. Link to additional sources and reading, challenge students to add arguments or question concepts.

• See Sample Knowledge Sharing Assignment
• See Demo Knowledge Sharing Exercise

How does Kialo work?

Explore complex issues.

With Kialo, discussions and debates are clearly visualized as an interactive tree of pro and con arguments. At the top of every discussion is the thesis , which is supported or challenged by pro and con claims. Each one of these claims can in turn branch into subsequent claims that support or challenge them.

Start a discussion

All discussions are private and can only be seen by those you choose to share them with. To start a discussion with your students, simply write a brief description and a thesis (or theses). Share the discussion with your whole class, or divide students into smaller groups.

Collaborate with your students

Each claim has a comment section underneath that allows you to give students feedback, suggest improvements, and ask questions without cluttering the surface of the discussion. Similarly, students can easily collaborate with each other to improve their arguments, examples, and phrasing.

Create teams for your classes

You can set up teams for each of your classes to easily share and organize the content you want your students to see. All content on Kialo-Edu.com is private, accessible only to the people you share it with.

See some of the ways you can use Kialo in your classroom

These features are just a small fraction of what you can do with Kialo. Find the application that works best with your teaching style.

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Best Apps for Problem Solving: Top Picks for Effective Solutions

In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, problem-solving skills are becoming increasingly crucial for personal and professional success. It is important to recognize that problem-solving involves more than just finding answers to a problem; it’s about understanding the problem, identifying potential solutions, and making informed decisions. In this regard, problem-solving apps have the potential to drastically improve one’s abilities in a variety of areas, as well as provide educational benefits.

These apps come in many forms, addressing everything from math and science problems to enhancing attention and concentration. They offer accessibility and support for users seeking to bolster their problem-solving capabilities. In addition to educational applications, many of these apps are also tailored to address challenges in industries like business and mental health or even to provide career guidance.

Key Takeaways

• Problem-solving apps cover a wide range of topics and can improve both personal and professional success.
• Educational benefits are a significant aspect of these apps, as they deal with various subjects such as math, science, and concentration.
• Apps that provide support for problem-solving extend beyond education, addressing challenges in business, mental health, and career guidance.

Recognizing Problem-Solving Apps

Today’s technology landscape is filled with mobile apps that aim to address various challenges we face daily. Recognizing essential problem-solving apps for iOS and Android devices can significantly improve our efficiency and simplify our lives.

• Lumosity : This app is designed to improve mental skills with engaging activities that target memory, flexibility, information processing speed, and concentration levels. Lumosity is perfectly suitable for individuals looking to enhance their problem-solving capabilities.
• Braingle : Braingle stands out for its focus on mental sharpness and reasoning through riddles and visual illusions. Compared to other apps, Braingle offers a unique approach to problem-solving, instead of relying on memory and reaction-based tasks.

Android Apps

• Educurious : This website offers supplemental apps that aim to turn students into “developing experts” by connecting them with real-world mentors and providing problem-based learning activities.
• Photomath : An app that simplifies mathematical problem-solving, Photomath allows users to scan a math problem with their device’s camera and receive instant solutions, explanations, and step-by-step instructions on how to solve it.

By incorporating these problem-solving apps into daily routines, users can enhance their mental abilities and find solutions to everyday challenges more effectively. Focusing on the right technology and investing time in useful software will undoubtedly improve one’s overall problem-solving skills.

Educational Benefits of Problem-Solving Apps

Boosting learning skills.

Problem-solving apps provide a variety of educational benefits to users, aiding in the development of crucial learning skills. These apps target different aspects of learning, such as memory, reading, writing, and listening, by presenting engaging challenges and activities. As users navigate through these tasks, they gain valuable insights and ideas that contribute to their overall understanding of an array of subjects.

Incorporating elements such as Lumosity with a personalized approach to learning can offer tailored activities to improve memory, attention, speed, and problem-solving skills. This adaptability allows users to progress at their own pace while receiving appropriate guidance and support.

Enhancing Critical Thinking

Problem-solving apps also play a vital role in enhancing critical thinking abilities. By offering various challenges and exercises, these apps motivate users to employ creative thinking, logical reasoning, and decision-making skills. Through continuous practice and application, the users develop a deeper understanding of concepts and improve their ability to analyze and evaluate scenarios.

Moreover, apps like Educurious , which connects students with real-world mentors and incorporates the Common Core aligned curriculum, help students build their critical thinking abilities and problem-based learning skills in line with the 21st-century technology demands.

In conclusion, problem-solving apps offer numerous educational benefits, from boosting learning skills to enhancing critical thinking. As users engage with these apps, they become more confident in their learning abilities, paving the way for higher academic achievement and lifelong learning.

Applications in Math and Science

In this digital age, there are numerous apps and websites available to help students develop problem-solving skills in math and science. These resources provide interactive, engaging, and adaptive platforms to enhance their educational experience.

Apps for Math Problems

From basic calculations to more complex topics like algebra, calculus, and word problems, math apps offer an excellent way to empower students with the tools they need for success.

One such resource is Mathway , which caters to a wide range of mathematical topics. Mathway enables students to input math problems, offering step-by-step solutions and explanations to further their understanding. The app even has a graphing feature for visual learners.

Another engaging resource is Moose Math , a free app that focuses on math games. These games assist younger students in refining their math skills, such as counting, addition, and subtraction, through points earned for completing challenges.

Applications for Science Tasks

When it comes to science, students need a comprehensive understanding of various concepts across physics, chemistry, and biology. Several apps can help with this intricate learning process.

For common core science concepts, Brilliant offers hands-on, interactive lessons to build quantitative skills. This platform covers core topics like algebra functions, quadratics, and even computer science concepts. Brilliant is designed to help students dive deep into problem-solving by breaking down complex topics and providing in-depth examples.

To assist students with their science homework, websites like Educators Technology can offer a selection of math problem solver apps. These apps not only tackle math problems but also provide additional reinforcement for understanding scientific concepts.

In conclusion, utilizing these various apps and online tools can significantly improve students’ problem-solving abilities in both math and science domains, paving the way for academic success.

Enhancing Attention and Concentration

A critical aspect of improving problem-solving skills involves enhancing one’s attention and concentration. Numerous apps are designed to target these cognitive abilities, allowing individuals to perform tasks efficiently and manage their time effectively.

One popular app that aims to maximize attention span is Lumosity . Developed by a team of game designers and scientists, Lumosity offers a range of interactive games and training exercises. These games are specifically tailored to improve memory, processing speed, attention span, and overall cognitive ability. By engaging in these activities regularly, users can strengthen their focus and address their weaknesses.

In addition to Lumosity, other apps are well-regarded for their positive influence on attention and concentration. For instance, Calm Sage lists several brain training apps to help improve memory and cognitive function. These apps provide fun, challenging exercises that test users’ problem-solving skills and logical thinking abilities while also identifying areas of improvement. Engaging in these activities can foster perseverance, allowing individuals to tackle tasks with greater determination and success.

To ensure that users can effectively manage their time, it is essential to incorporate strategies that promote enhanced attention and concentration. By utilizing apps like Lumosity and those mentioned on Calm Sage, individuals can train their brains to focus on tasks more effectively and allocate their time more efficiently. Ultimately, these tools can lead to meaningful improvements in one’s ability to approach complex problem-solving scenarios with confidence and clarity.

Support and Help within Apps

When it comes to problem-solving apps, efficient support and help features are crucial for users to navigate through the platform and find the solutions they need. A good app will provide diverse support mechanisms, whether it’s tutorials for first-time users, FAQs to answer common questions, or customer service to address specific concerns.

In-app purchases often play a significant part in enhancing app experience. They might offer advanced features or additional resources, allowing users to unlock their full potential when solving problems. However, it’s essential for the app developers to offer a clear and transparent payment system, helping users to make informed decisions on whether the additional content is worth the investment.

Problem-solving apps rely on user reviews and feedback to constantly improve their features and functionalities. Therefore, it’s essential to have an efficient way for users to communicate their experiences, suggestions, and issues. Developers should ensure that they actively monitor feedback and provide prompt responses to users who might need assistance with the app.

When it comes to navigating through an app, a well-designed interface and smooth user experience will keep users engaged and motivated to solve problems. This includes logical menu structures, consistent design elements, and clear labeling for different sections or features. Visual aids, such as color-coding or iconography, can further help users find their way around the app, streamlining the overall problem-solving process.

By addressing these aspects, problem-solving apps can create a holistic experience with clear solutions and support mechanisms in place. When users feel empowered to access the help they need, it enables them to tackle challenges effectively, enhancing their overall problem-solving experience.

Problem-Solving Apps for Business

Applications for business challenges.

In today’s fast-paced business environment, companies face various challenges, such as improving customer service, addressing operational inefficiencies, and managing resources effectively. With the help of innovative mobile apps, businesses can tackle these issues and find effective solutions.

Lumosity is a prime example of a problem-solving app designed to improve mental skills. By enhancing memory, flexibility, and information processing speed, this web app can indirectly contribute to the development of employees’ problem-solving capabilities.

Mobile applications are becoming increasingly useful in improving customer services by providing quicker query resolution and 24/7 support. AI-based chatbots, often embedded in mobile apps, can help businesses respond to customer queries and questions more efficiently, resulting in better customer satisfaction.

In addressing business operations , many organizations turn to Microsoft Power Apps to identify and solve problems. Power Apps allow developing custom applications tailored to specific business needs without requiring extensive coding experience. By streamlining processes and automating manual tasks, these apps can significantly impact operational efficiency.

Furthermore, numerous apps on the market solve everyday problems faced by both businesses and individuals. For example, Google Play offers 2.56 million mobile apps, while the App Store provides access to 1.85 million apps. Among these vast selections, businesses can surely find applications that cater to their specific requirements, from project management to financial planning.

In summary, as businesses traverse the ever-evolving landscape of challenges, adopting problem-solving applications can undoubtedly provide valuable assistance in finding the most effective and efficient solutions along their path to success.

Mental Health Support through Apps

In today’s fast-paced world, finding support and solutions for mental health issues is crucial. Numerous apps have been developed to help individuals cope with and manage their anxiety and depression. These digital tools offer a variety of approaches to maintaining mental well-being, from cognitive training exercises to resources for professional guidance.

Apps for Anxiety

Anxiety can manifest in different ways, but common symptoms include constant worrying, restlessness, and even physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath. The following apps aim to provide support and techniques for managing anxiety:

• Headspace : This popular meditation app teaches mindfulness techniques, which have been found effective in managing anxiety and reducing instances of negative, repetitive thinking.
• MindShift : Designed specifically for anxiety, MindShift provides resources and tools to help users develop healthy coping strategies and face their fears. This app embraces Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) principles, which are widely considered as an effective approach to dealing with anxiety disorders.

Apps for Depression

Depression can be a debilitating condition resulting in persistent sadness, loss of interest in daily activities, and even physical symptoms like lack of energy or changes in appetite. The following apps offer support and solutions for those experiencing depression:

• Lumosity : This brain-training app focuses on cognitive exercises that stimulate different areas of the brain and encourage users to develop healthy cognitive habits. By improving memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, Lumosity can help individuals coping with depression maintain their mental abilities and gain a stronger sense of control.
• Elevate : Like Lumosity, Elevate is a cognitive training app aimed at improving focus, memory, and comprehension through engaging games and activities. Regular use of the app can lead to better mental clarity, which may help alleviate some depressive symptoms.
• BetterHelp : This platform connects users with licensed therapists, offering a convenient way to access professional mental health support. BetterHelp provides therapy sessions through phone, video, or messaging, making it easier for those experiencing depression to receive the guidance they need.

Using apps for mental health support can be an effective and accessible way to manage anxiety and depression. It is important, however, to remember that these apps are not a substitute for professional help but can serve as valuable supplementary tools in one’s mental health journey.

Popular Puzzle and Brain Games

Memory-boosting puzzle games.

A variety of memory-boosting puzzle games are available for those who wish to sharpen their cognitive skills. These games are designed to challenge the brain and improve memory, logic, and problem-solving abilities. Some popular memory-boosting puzzle games include:

• Lumosity : This app offers over 40 puzzles and games that test your brain and help train memory, logic, and math skills for a well-rounded mind workout. It features specific challenges for attention, flexibility, problem solving, language, math, speed, memory, and more ( source ).
• Grindstone : A strategy puzzle game where players plan each move carefully to complete levels efficiently, thus encouraging the development of critical thinking and planning skills ( source ).
• Monument Valley : This beautiful and captivating game requires players to manipulate the environment to progress through an M.C. Escher-inspired world, enhancing spatial reasoning and creativity.

The New York Times Crossword

The New York Times Crossword is a classic app that has stood the test of time, providing avid fans with daily crossword puzzles to stimulate their brains and expand their vocabularies. The puzzles range in difficulty, offering varying levels of challenge for both new and experienced solvers. The app is easily accessible on both Android and iOS devices, enabling players to indulge in a moment of problem-solving fun anytime and anywhere.

By engaging in these popular puzzle and brain games, players can keep their minds sharp and refine their problem-solving skills. These activities not only provide a fun and engaging form of entertainment but also promote cognitive growth and development.

Career Guidance through Problem-Solving Apps

In today’s competitive job market, individuals seeking career success must continually hone their problem-solving skills. By utilizing problem-solving apps, they can sharpen their cognitive abilities, find solutions to challenges, and stay on the right path to achievement. In this section, we will discuss some of the best apps that are designed to help improve problem-solving skills.

Braingle is a unique app that pushes the limits of mental sharpness through the use of riddles and visual illusions. By presenting different types of puzzles, Braingle encourages users to strengthen their reasoning and analytical skills, which could be beneficial in various aspects of career growth.

Another outstanding app is Lumosity , specifically designed to enhance cognitive function. It offers various activities that focus on memory, flexibility, information processing speed, and concentration. Incorporating Lumosity into one’s routine can ultimately lead to better problem-solving capabilities necessary for career advancement.

The third app, Elevate , is an award-winning brain training program offering a wide array of exercises and games. These activities are aimed at improving cognitive abilities critical for effective problem-solving. With a progress tracking feature, users can monitor their improvement over time and see how they are progressing in their problem-solving skills.

In addition to these apps, individuals must also practice problem-solving strategies in the workplace. Asana recommends a four-step approach, starting with identifying the problem, gathering information, formulating a plan, and executing the solution. Following this process can efficiently solve issues faced in a professional environment.

By using these problem-solving apps and adopting a methodical approach to tackling career challenges, individuals can pave the way for continuous growth and achievement. It is vital to remember that enhancing one’s problem-solving skills is a journey, requiring dedication and persistent effort.

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KidCoach - thinking questions 4+

Getting families talking, kidcoach ltd, designed for iphone.

• 4.0 • 4 Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

iPhone Screenshots

Description.

Do you get to the end of busy working days and realise you didn’t spend quality time with your children? Do you find your family conversations snatched and transactional like “how was school?” or “have you done your homework?” As a busy parent do you wish you had the energy and inspiration to do something quick, fun and yet educational to do with the kids? Something that helps you develop their thinking skills in just five minutes day, yet will not feel like learning? The KidCoachApp is a parenting / education app, featured by the BBC and scored 92% by the Educational App Store, that is definitely going to help. It’s perfect for busy parents of 6-12 year old children who want to be a bit more hands-on in the education of their kids, who are keen to get their kids talking and thinking more recognising they need different skills not usually covered at school to thrive (e.g. critical thinking, communication and creativity), and for those needing something quick with zero preparation or materials. The KidCoachApp has 1000+ fast, fun and thoughtful questions for kids. Each question is deliberately designed to build a “21st century skill” like creativity, critical thinking, resilience, communication or leadership, e.g. - “What are 10 things to do with a cup?” (Creativity) - “Is there life on other planets?” (Critical Thinking) - “How would you describe a car to an alien?” (Communication) - “Who is a leader you admire and why?” (Leadership) - “What do you find easy that was once hard?” (Confidence) - “What would happen if everyone had a magic wand?” (Creativity) - “How would you cross a river if you had to?” (Critical Thinking) Your kids will love talking about these questions! The KidCoachApp is super easy to use and gives you inspiration in the palm of your hand. Some parents use the app on the way to school, others at the dinner table and others before bedtime. You can slot the conversations into your family routine however it works for you. After using the app you’ll have that fist-pump feeling of a parenting job well done. And it will only take five minutes! Not sure how to have these conversations? The app supports you every step of the way. We’ve written plenty of guidance and prompts to help you take each conversation deeper. The question flashcards have been written with the support of parenting, family, child development and education experts (think BBC, Disney and Cambridge)! Not sure you’ll have the time to use the app? Remember it only takes five minutes and even having a “KidCoach” conversation once a week will make you feel like a better parent, while building the skills your kids need to thrive. Worried about accidentally purchasing a subscription? You’ll be glad to know there is a two-week free trial with NO payment details or commitments required. So it is 100% risk-free. If you do choose to subscribe afterwards it is just the price of a Starbucks coffee a month, and we add fresh questions in every single month (often based on the news)! Priya is a dentist and said: “There are loads of apps out there for math or English but nothing that teaches kids to talk and think. I haven't seen anything like this before!” Sarah is a homeschooling parent and she said “It's exactly what we're looking for. We want our kids to be able to voice opinions, communicate views respectfully and think critically about the things they read and hear.” John is an accountant and he said “This is such an easy way to get children thinking more broadly about the things that matter. It’s so easy to use and I don’t see how this wouldn’t help every family out there.” So if you want to get your kids talking and thinking in fast and fun ways, then tap GET to install the KidCoachApp now! Your kids will be glad you did.

Version 3.5

Set your own schedule and be prompted with questions when it suits you best!

Ratings and Reviews

Children became more inquisitive.

The app is fantastic! My two girls, 6 and 10, love answering the questions in the car during school drop off and pick up. Our dinners are now longer and more meaningful as kids aren’t rushing to eat so they can watch a bit of tv. Instead, their eating pace has become slower (happier tummy) as we’re going through questions and listening to everyone’s response. We love it and highly recommend!

Charged but no content

I was charged a subscription but have no way to access the content. It’s all blocked.

App Privacy

The developer, Kidcoach Ltd , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Contact Info
• User Content
• Identifiers
• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• Monthly $5.99
• Annual $19.99
• Annual $39.99
• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

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6 Best Language Apps For Critical Thinking Skills

If you’re like me, you’ve probably downloaded many language apps, hoping to find the right one. But did you know the best ones can sharpen your brain, too? 

Yes, it’s true. I’ve been searching around for a while now. So I thought, why not share my top picks with you? That’s why I’ve got six language apps for critical thinking skills you’ll need when learning a new language, or new languages, if you’re a polyglot. We’ll start strong with the Ling app . It’s unbeaten, not gonna lie, but let’s look at some options.

Quick Summary:

• Native speaker audio
• Spaced repetition
• Leaderboards and challenges

• Grammar review
• Official certificates
• Native speaker feedback

• Video captions
• Personalized quizzes
• Diverse content library

At a glance:

• Best For Comprehensive Learning: Ling
• Best For Conversational Practice: Busuu
• Best For Authentic Content: FluentU
• Best For Real-Life Immersion: Memrise
• Best Innovative Technology: Mondly
• Best For Customized Learning: Lingvist

1. Ling – Best App For Comprehensive Learning & Real-Life Scenarios

The first time I used the Ling app , I was genuinely impressed by how it intertwined critical thinking with language learning. The lessons? They’re set up like games. And these games challenge you to think, not just click. 

For example, the Ling app ’s quiz is not about simply remembering a word. You’ll find yourself diving deep into the context, considering various options, and making educated choices. This mental workout is what makes the Ling app stand out.

And then there are the real-life scenarios through its chatbot. Let’s say you’re navigating a lesson about ordering food in Japan. Sure, you’ll learn to say, “Can I have some sushi?” in Japanese. But mentally, you’re stepping into that Tokyo sushi bar, predicting the chef’s reactions, and strategizing your interactions. 

While many critical thinking apps touch on real-life situations, the depth and authenticity the Ling app brings to these scenarios are noteworthy. This makes it a prime pick for those eager to sharpen their critical thinking while learning new languages.

Transform Your Language Skills in a Week – Get the Ling App Today!

Devices: Android, iOS, Web

Ling App Overview

The Ling app merges language and critical thinking with game-like lessons and real-life scenarios, enhancing both understanding and engagement.

• Best for Complete Learning
• Price $14.99 / month
• Free trial First 8 lessons free
• Native Speaker Audio: The Ling app offers audio clips from native speakers. This ensures you get the most authentic pronunciation and intonation for over 60 languages.
• Spaced Repetition System (SRS): This app uses a technique that reminds you of words and concepts at just the correct intervals, ensuring retention.
• Leaderboards & Challenges: You can compete with friends and users from all over the world to position yourself at the top. This adds a dash of extra motivation to the experience.

User Feedback

• Positive Feedback: Many users appreciate the Ling app ’s methodology. One user mentioned, “It really goes to the core of how most people learned their first language,” highlighting the app’s effectiveness in stimulating critical thinking.
• Room for Improvement: Some users expressed specific suggestions. For instance, “I think it would be cool if, like the dialogue chats, you could highlight specific words for replay,” indicating a desire for more detailed language exploration.
• Free  with beginner lessons and an introductory Chatbot.
• Monthly:  $14.99
• Yearly:  $79.99  (7-day free trial)
• Lifetime:  $149.99

2. Busuu – Best For Interactive Conversational Practice

Busuu feels like you’re jumping into a conversation from the word go, but with guidance. With this app, you’re chatting, actively participating, and thinking ahead. 

One of Busuu ‘s highlights is that it lets you engage with native speakers , helping keep you alert. While doing this, you’ll consider cultural contexts, decipher potential slang, and craft thoughtful replies.

From my experience with it, Busuu’s active participation is what hones critical thinking. While the Ling app immerses you in detailed scenarios, Busuu thrives on spontaneous, real-time interactions. 

It’s like the difference between practicing a speech and having an impromptu debate. Both need skill, but one demands agility and quick wit.

Devices:  Android, iOS, Web

Busuu Overview

Busuu focuses on active, conversational practice with native speakers, sharpening quick thinking and cultural awareness.

• Best for Conversational Practice
• Price $13.90 / month
• Free trial 14 days
• Grammar Review: Aside from teaching words, Busuu also teaches you grammar, giving you a more holistic learning.
• Official Certificates: Busuu rewards its users with certificates from McGraw-Hill Education, a testament to their learning.
• Feedback from Native Speakers: This app allows you to engage with real people worldwide who offer genuine feedback, an invaluable tool when learning a new language.
• Positive Feedback: Busuu has garnered positive remarks. A user shared, “I like this app a lot, and it has helped me accelerate my language learning process,” suggesting its potential to enhance cognitive skills.
• Room for Improvement: There were comments about missing languages, with a user pointing out, “I’m trying to learn Romanian, and it’s not there,” indicating a need for a broader language selection.
• Monthly premium:  $13.90
• 6 months premium:  $83.40
• Yearly premium:  $166.80

3. Memrise – Best For Immersive Real-Life Situations

Memrise is another great app for those who prefer learning a language in context, as it gives you a firsthand experience with video clips with real local speakers.

But here’s what’s interesting: real people don’t follow scripts. They have unique accents, local lingo, and a natural conversational pace, making each clip within Memrise a mini-challenge. 

When learning via this method, you’re actively breaking down the dialogue, grasping the backdrop, and sometimes, making educated assumptions based on the context. This way, Memrise ensures you’re always on your toes, pushing your language and critical thinking skills to the forefront.

Memrise Overview

Memrise provides immersive experiences with real locals, offering natural dialogues and context-based challenges for in-depth learning.

• Best for Real-Life Immersion
• Free trial 7 days
• Pronunciation Guide: Memrise has very detailed pronunciation guides that help users sound more authentic.
• Practical Language: This app teaches you practical vocabulary right away, focusing only on relevant words and phrases that you’ll actually use.
• Chatbot: Memrise has its own chatbot, Membot, which helps you practice your pronunciation and guides you along the way.
• Positive Feedback: Memrise has received commendations on its effectiveness. A user declared, “I’ve tried all the apps for online language learning, and this one is the best!”
• Room for Improvement: The app underwent some changes, and some users expressed nostalgia for previous features. Remarks like, “The once fun and colorful app is now awful thanks to the new update,” show that some of the changes weren’t welcome by everyone.
• Monthly premium:  $14.99
• Yearly premium:  $89.99
• Lifetime subscription:  $199.99

4. FluentU – Best For Authentic Content & Interactive Learning

FluentU aims for its users to experience a language as it’s genuinely spoken. True to its word, it offers a vast array of real-world videos that let you learn your target language in context, catching nuances you would miss otherwise.

But why does this matter for critical thinking? With each video, you’re doing more than watching and listening. You’re gauging the mood, catching cultural hints, and understanding the bigger picture. 

For example, watching a documentary about a carnival in Brazil isn’t simply about comprehension. Instead, it’s a deep dive into cultural insights, regional accents, and the particularities of the event. That’s how Fluent U’s videos make you think deeper and understand better.

While other language apps for critical thinking skills , like the Ling app , gave me a structured path, FluentU gave me a vast landscape to explore and think about.

FuentU Overview

FluentU uses real-world videos to teach language, emphasizing cultural insights and comprehensive understanding through authentic content.

• Best for Authentic Content
• Price $29.99 / month
• Video Captions: FluentU offers videos with interactive captions. This turns them into an opportunity to stimulate critical thinking.
• Personalized Quizzes: The app also lets you test your knowledge and analytical thinking with quizzes tailored to your watched videos.
• Vast Content Library : Fluent U has a large catalog of videos, ensuring all users can find something that catches their interest.
• Positive Feedback: FluentU’s users have highlighted its “thorough explanations and deep repositories of resources.” This means learners appreciate the app’s comprehensive approach.
• Room for Improvement: Some users have faced technical issues. One of them mentioned, “Poor-login issues… Where are the lessons?” After all, Giving users a seamless experience is very important.
• Monthly premium subscription: $29.99
• Yearly premium subscription: $143.99

5. Mondly – Best For Innovative Technology & Practical Topics

Mondly is another language-learning app that focuses on practical, relevant language. It relies on short lessons to teach you words and phrases based on real-world situations.

The lessons are sorted into categories with options to review them. What’s more, useful features such as a hands-free mode for when you’re on the go and a chatbot to practice conversations with make this an excellent option for those learning a new language.

Another interesting feature of Mondly is its AR (Augmented Reality) lessons. With them, you get a virtual language teacher who introduces you to a world in which to practice conversations in a safe environment, relying on the phrases you’ve learned.

Mondly Overview

Mondly integrates AR and VR for practical language experiences, blending modern tech with real-world topics for immersive learning.

• Best for Innovative Technology
• Price $9.99 / month
• Speech Recognition: Mondly’s app features a powerful speech recognition system that lets you practice your speaking skills with its chatbot.
• Real-Life Language: Learning from real conversations with native speakers ensures you learn language in context and not just memorize words and phrases.
• Various Language Pairs: Mondly has over 1,000 language combinations, which means you have the option to learn from your native language.
• Positive Feedback: Mondly’s user-friendly approach is appreciated. A user mentioned, “This is a very easy learning app… you can trust this app.”
• Room for Improvement: Some users had content-related feedback, stating, “It’s pretty okay for Thai but will include words that I haven’t gotten to yet without explaining,” emphasizing the need for more clarity in the lessons.
• Free  with basic daily lessons.
• Monthly premium (one language):  $9.99
• Yearly premium (one language):  $47.99
• Lifetime (all languages):  $99.99

6. Lingvist – Best For Adaptive Customized Learning

Thanks to its AI-driven approach, Lingvist feels like it’s always one step ahead. It uses AI algorithms to evaluate your proficiency and place you at the appropriate level.

It also spots your weak areas and nudges you toward them, ensuring constant growth. As such, each session feels tailored, making you evaluate, recall, and apply what you’ve learned. 

In my opinion, Lingvist’s precision is one of its greatest strengths. While the Ling app provides a wide-ranging, scenario-based approach, Lingvist focuses on your specific needs. This guarantees every session is a blend of language learning and critical thinking.

Lingvist Overview

Lingvist uses AI to deliver personalized lessons, targeting specific learning needs and enhancing critical thinking.

• Best for Customized Learning
• Price $4.99 / month
• Neural Network Assessment: Lingvist uses advanced tech to assess your vocabulary, offering a unique learning experience.
• Cross-Platform: Whether you’re at home on a computer or on the go using your phone, Lingvist’s platform ensures consistent progress tracking.
• Short Lessons: Lingvist teaches you common words that are actually used in real life, with the idea of improving your vocabulary in just 10 minutes per day.
• Positive Feedback: Users seem to like Lingvist’s adaptive learning, mentioning that “the app is great. Learning the decks is very efficient.”
• Room for Improvement: There were concerns about translations, with comments like, “The words translated into the original language do not always correspond to the words in the language to be learned.”
• Free with basic and limited features.
• Monthly premium: $9.99
• Yearly premium: $79.99

Why Use Language Apps For Critical Thinking Skills?

Language apps do wonders for the brain, and it’s not all about learning new words. Think of them as a fun brain workout session. Here’s a deeper dive into their benefits:

• Brain Challenges: Each word or phrase in a language app is a puzzle piece. Your brain determines where it fits, helping you recognize patterns and connections.
• Decision Time: When a language app quizzes you on the right word for a sentence, it’s more than a test. It’s an exercise in weighing options and refining decision-making skills.
• Memory Training: Recalling that tisch means “table” in German? That’s your brain flexing its memory muscles, storing and retrieving information.
• Active Learning: Language apps demand your full attention. They ensure you’re constantly thinking, analyzing, and synthesizing information.
• Mistakes as Lessons: Got something wrong in the app? No worries. The feedback is an opportunity to reflect, adjust, and improve, helping you fine-tune your language skills.

Learn Languages With Ling!

I know that selecting a language app that also enhances critical thinking requires a thoughtful approach. A good tip is to consider your objectives. Do you want to learn by talking to native speakers? Maybe an app like Busuu can help. Do you prefer a more customized teaching style? Perhaps Lingvist is a better choice.

However, among the language apps for critical thinking skills available, the Ling app stands out . That’s because its seamless integration of language learning with fun exercises and a gamified interface help make the process much more engaging.

In addition to that, the Ling app’s focus on all language skills at once—listening, reading, writing, and speaking—gives you a more holistic learning experience. And this is accompanied by features such as pronunciation practice with a chatbot, a section to review each unit’s content, and instant pronunciation feedback, among many others.

Interested? Download the Ling app from Google Play and the App Stor e . You’ll join millions of language learners on this journey and also give your brain the workout it deserves!

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Yes, Biden is really running in November. But a lot of voters say they doubt it

President Biden in Chandler, Ariz., on March 20. Biden is running for reelection, but a surprising number of voters don't believe it.

Brendan Smialowski / AFP via Getty Images

In November, President Biden and Former President Donald Trump will be at the top of the ballot, just like they were in 2020. But among voters, there is an undercurrent of disbelief that this rematch is really happening.

Take Debbie Pridmore, for example, who shared her suspicions with NPR last month after casting a ballot for Trump in the North Carolina Republican primary.

"I really don't see Biden running. I see them finding some way to get him out and get someone else in," she said.

To be clear, Biden — the incumbent president — is running for reelection.

Related: It’s easy to tune out politics. Biden’s campaign is using an app to get around that

But these doubts have been an undeniable theme in conversations with voters this year, voters who believe something — it's not clear exactly what — is going to happen between now and November.

"I don't know who they would get in. I've got my thoughts, but I don't want to share those," said Pridmore. "I don't think Biden's going to be able to run."

All evidence shows Biden is running. And yet, doubts persist

The Democratic National Committee is working in lockstep with Biden's campaign, raising and spending millions of dollars. There are campaign ads on television, offices full of staff and volunteers.

Biden has held numerous rallies and events in swing states. And a recent report from the president's doctor describes him as "a healthy, active, robust 81-year-old" who "continues to be fit for duty."

But there are plenty of voters, especially Republicans, who openly muse about a different possibility.

"I would think that hopefully the Democrats can come up with somebody better," said Ed Boyle, a Republican from a suburb of Raleigh, N.C.

Related: Biden and Trump are both at the border today, staking out ground on a key 2024 issue

Pressed on the fact that Biden faced no serious challengers and it was quite late into an election cycle to make a change, Boyle was undeterred.

"Who knows what they're up to," Boyle said of Democrats. "I would be surprised if they don't pick somebody different."

It's become "part of the ambient noise of the universe"

In Wisconsin, Democratic Party Chairman Ben Wikler said he hears these doubts all the time from focus groups, and when knocking on doors and talking to voters. It's on TikTok and other social media. And he said it isn't just coming from people who don't pay much attention to politics.

Some people speculate about a "big surprise." Others muse about the idea of swapping out the president or the vice president for a new, better candidate. Wikler said he's even heard the occasional mention of "a body double."

"It's kind of part of the ambient noise of the universe," said Wikler.

President Biden and first lady Jill Biden at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll on April 1.

Kent Nishimura / Getty Images

"We are all conspiracy theorists now"

The surge in doubts about political facts is being fueled by an ecosystem of media and social media built up around amplifying disinformation, said Melissa Ryan, a consultant who specializes in combating disinformation.

"I mean, we are all conspiracy theorists now," said Ryan. "We are just in this place, societally, where everything is a conspiracy theory and no one trusts anyone."

She said right-wing influencers are playing up Biden's age and wild ideas about possible replacements as a strategy to build up their audiences, a sort of engagement bait. But this isn't new. She recalls it during the Clinton and Obama presidencies too.

"That kind of stuff has always been in the ether," she said. "But it no longer stays on right-wing talk radio. It's become so much more mainstream."

President Biden walks to board Air Force One on March 29.

For some voters, it's wishful thinking

Sarah Longwell runs focus groups as part of an effort called Republican Voters Against Trump. She said she has heard variations on this from voters all across the political spectrum.

She said some people have bought into a prevalent (and false) right-wing narrative that "Biden isn't just old, but actually has dementia and that somebody else is pulling the strings, that there is someone else who is sort of propping him up."

But in other cases, Longwell said she thinks some people are simply staring down reality and trying to wish it away.

"Sometimes I liken it to going through the five stages of grief," Longwell said, describing voters who don't want to accept that 2024 is a rematch between the same two men who fought it out in 2020.

Related: Biden alone in Oregon voters’ pamphlet after Trump declined to submit statement

This idea of, like, 'You could swap somebody out, you could have somebody new,'" said Longwell. "It's all part of, 'This can't be the reality that we're living in.' And it's why acceptance — getting to acceptance — is so important."

For their part, Biden campaign officials and allies said they expect that once people accept that Biden really is the nominee — and that he really is facing Trump — voters will come around to the stakes in this election.

Here's what happened in one recent focus group

During one of her recent focus groups involving people who had voted for Trump in 2016 and Biden in 2020, a participant from Michigan identified by his first name only — Mike — said he doesn't think that Biden is going to be the Democratic nominee.

"I think they're going to do a switch like I've been hearing on the news," Mike said in footage of the focus group shared with NPR.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom talks with President Biden and other Democratic officials at San Francisco International Airport on Nov. 14, 2023.

Evan Vucci / AP

"Maybe (California) Governor (Gavin) Newsom's gonna come in there, or some think Michelle Obama will be going in there," he said. (The former first lady recently addressed these persistent rumors directly , making it clear that she is not running.)

A facilitator asked the focus group whether others agreed with Mike, and three people raised their hands.

They expressed doubts about Trump, too. Asked whether they think Trump's four criminal indictments could mean he ultimately is not the Republican nominee, four of the participants raised their hands.

And while Mike from Michigan said he would prefer an alternative, he said that given a choice between Trump and Biden, he would vote for Biden — reluctantly.

Copyright 2024 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

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South Carolina’s 6-foot-7 Kamilla Cardoso is the center of attention for the title-hunting Gamecocks

When Cardoso is unstoppable, so is America’s best squad

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CLEVELAND (AP) — Her frizzy hair dyed a maroon closely matching South Carolina’s garnet, Kamilla Cardoso was impossible to miss as she stood near mid-court inside Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse on Friday night.

At 6-foot-7, it’s not like she blends in.

The center of attention. In some circles, the mean girl.

With the biggest game of the season minutes away, Cardoso showed no nerves on the Final Four stage. She owned it by dancing, showing off soccer dribbling skills developed in her native Brazil and then trying several times to shoot the ball off the giant scoreboard hanging 100 feet above her head.

Cardoso being Cardoso.

“She’s just silly,” said teammate Ashlyn Watkins, “and she’s always doing crazy stuff like that for no reason.”

Maybe misunderstood by opponents and outsiders, Cardoso, who left her family behind in 2016 at just 15 to pursue her dream of playing high-level basketball in the U.S., is the main reason the undefeated Gamecocks (37-0) are favored to win their second national title in three years on Sunday when they face Iowa and superstar Caitlin Clark.

The Hawkeyes (34-4) don’t have anyone who can physically match up with Cardoso.

Nobody does.

In Friday’s first semifinal, Cardoso almost single-handedly wrecked North Carolina State by scoring 22 points in 23 minutes, shaking off a right leg injury as the Gamecocks advanced with a 78-59 win to set up a rematch against Iowa.

She scored South Carolina’s first 12 points in the second quarter and had six more in the Gamecocks’ 29-6 onslaught in the third.

It was the kind of performance the Gamecocks have always wanted and not always gotten from Cardoso, who is skipping her final college year for the WNBA.

When Cardoso is unstoppable, so is America’s best squad.

“It makes us a way better team,” Gamecocks guard Raven Johnson said. “When we can play through her, it makes the guards better. Just look at her, she’s 6-7. There’s really no one out there like her. She’s really a key to this team and when she brings her ‘A’ game every day, I don’t see anyone who is going to stop her.”

Cardoso wasn’t available for interviews Saturday. A team spokesman said she was receiving medical treatment during the media breakout sessions.

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But Cardoso, who had 14 points and 14 rebounds in last year’s Final Four loss to Iowa, didn’t seem to be bothered by her leg during an open practice that drew thousands of fans. She moved easily and usually with a smile as the Gamecocks went through drills.

There have been highs and lows all season for Cardoso.

With the Gamecocks in danger of losing to Tennessee in the Southeastern Conference Tournament, she banked in the first 3-pointer of her career — only her second attempt after a miss for Syracuse in 2020 — at the buzzer to beat the Lady Vols.

The next day, Cardoso got attention for the wrong reasons.

With tensions smoldering during a heated matchup against LSU, Tigers star Angel Reese was caught on TV pulling Cardoso’s hair, leading to some jawing between the stars. Moments later, LSU’s Flau’jae Johnson shoved Watkins and Cardoso flew to her teammate’s side, pushing Johnson to the floor.

Both benches emptied, women’s basketball took a blemish and South Carolina coach Dawn Staley apologized. Cardoso did the same but she was suspended for the NCAA Tournament first-round game against Presbyterian.

The incident didn’t help Cardoso’s image, which her teammates believe is unfair.

“She’s just something different,” guard Bree Hall said. “I think it’s unfortunate that the media has made it that she’s this mean person. She is not. She is a beautiful Brazilian warrior. She’s so sweet, always smiling, always happy for all of us.

“She’s super funny and just a joyful and cheerful person.”

It’s taken time for Cardoso to fit in with the Gamecocks.

She knew just three words in English — “hi,” “yes” and “bye” — when she left Brazil eight years ago. Although she got more comfortable in later years, there were awkward moments when she got to campus in 2021 as she tried to learn about her teammates and vice versa.

“I remember her not knowing English,” Johnson said. “She was looking at us like we were weird. I was like ‘Why is she looking at us like that?’ As years developed she started learning English and she got better.”

And as the language gap was bridged, Cardoso’s personality changed — from surly to sweet.

“She was so mean when she first got here,” Johnson said. “She was so mean to us. She developed over time.”

So has her game. Cardoso hasn’t always embraced the idea of being the Gamecocks’ leading lady, even though she leads the team in scoring and rebounding. Her scoring average during the tournament is 17.0 points per game, higher than her season average of 14.3

“Her presence inside has done so much for us,” guard Te-Hina Paopao said. “Seeing her growth over the season has been so much fun to watch and experience with her. Coming into the summer, she wasn’t really looking to dominate like she is now.

“It’s a great sight to see. I’m really excited for her journey. We’ve got one more. I know she’s going to dominate (Sunday).”

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When will solar eclipse reach your town? These maps show path's timing, how long it lasts.

Hundreds of cities in 13 u.s. states fall directly on the april 8 eclipse's path of totality as the moon blocks the sun's disc and ushers in darkness. these interactive maps offer a closer look..

Come Monday, millions of Americans from Texas to Maine will stop what they're doing to step outside and spend a few minutes gazing skyward .

Few celestial events have the power to capture our collective attention the way this upcoming total solar eclipse has managed to do. And for those making time to witness it, two questions are bound to be on their mind : Will totality reach my area and if so, how long will the resulting darkness last?

Most people across the country are bound to experience the eclipse in some form, but only 13 states fall directly on the path of totality, where the moon will appear large enough to shield all but the sun's outermost layer, the corona.

As you make your eclipse-viewing plans, these interactive maps should help you chart the time and duration for when totality will occur in cities along the path.

Solar eclipse experiment: Here's why NASA is launching 3 sounding rockets into space during the total solar eclipse

Total solar eclipse path of totality map

The 115-mile-wide path of totality will pass from southwest to northeast over portions of Mexico the United States and Canada.

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which will occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow travels northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin at 1:27 p.m. CDT in Eagle Pass, Texas. From there, the path will cut diagonally across the country before ending around 3:35 p.m. EDT in Lee, Maine.

Remember: If you plan to witness the eclipse, proper eyewear is a must until the eclipse reaches totality, then it can be viewed with the naked eye.

Here's a map of some of the larger cities in each of the 13 states on the path to show how the duration of totality will vary:

Cities, states on the path of totality

All told, nearly 500 cities in 13 U.S. states are located on the eclipse's path of totality. Here are some of the major cities in each of the 13 states:

• Dallas and San Antonio, Texas
• Idabel, Oklahoma
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Paducah, Kentucky
• Indianapolis and Evansville, Indiana
• Carbondale, Illinois
• Cleveland and Toledo, Ohio
• Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont
• Lancaster, New Hampshire
• Caribou, Maine
• Erie, Pennsylvania

This interactive map provides a closer look at cities along the path, when totality will arrive there and how long totality will last:

Eclipse watch parties, festivals

Such a rare event is sure to attract skygazing tourists unlucky enough to live outside the path of totality. Fortunately, many cities that will experience the total eclipse are planning plenty of festivities for tourists and locals alike.

This map , courtesy of Kristian Campana at festivalguidesandreviews.com , includes locations of watch parties, music festivals and more all tied to the eclipse's arrival:

2024 total solar eclipse interactive map with zip code search

Perhaps the easiest way to see how the eclipse will impact your city or town, is to put your zip code into USA TODAY's interactive eclipse map .

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]