Educational apps for early learners see huge jump


Most technologies do experience a gap period, but the report notes that the app is likely to decrease in the future, making apps as accessible as traditional forms of media such as television and video game systems.

Developers should offer high-quality content in light of the amount of time that children devote to media consumption.

“Early learning is by far the most popular subject/skill-set, yet the children most in need of early learning interventions are not likely to have access to apps,” according to the report.

Recommendations for developers

The findings reveal a number of findings and recommendations that can help app developers target their educational apps and penetrate new markets.

Knowing how to promote an educational app can make or break the app’s success, because even the most useful and easy-to-operate app can become lost in an app store with hundreds of thousands of available titles.

“Creation is only half the battle” when it comes to children’s educational apps, and “discovery is fundamentally important.”

Taking tips from other app developers, the report’s recommendations for app marketing include:

  • Have a marketing plan in advance of your app launch.
  • Branding is important.
  • A social media strategy may help.
  • Establish a relationship with children’s tech bloggers and reviewers before releasing an app.
  • Cross-promotion can be effective.

“Ultimately, making an extraordinary app is key. But if great content isn’t discovered and downloaded, it’s not going to have impact no matter how amazing it is,” according to the report.

The study was written by Cooney Center Senior Industry Analyst Carly Shuler and is a publication of the Games and Learning Publishing Council, which is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Laura Ascione

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