We are always looking for model courses to review and gather ideas from. Well my friends, look no further than your child's ipad.
Reading Eggs is a program of Edmentum meant for ages 3-7. There are also other versions of the program for math (Math Seeds) and for older readers (Reading Eggspress, up to age 13).
The program hits almost all of my indicators for an excellent course design and build. Here are a few highlights:
Gamified - a series of real environments (like the desert and tundra). Students unlock eggs that hatch into fun little characters that you would really see in those environments.
Relevant narration - characters are narrating, moving around the screen and interacting with elements on the screen. Voices are interesting and sometimes unusual which hooks the child's interest.
Engaging and colorful graphics - loads of color and fun characters
Lots of "white space" - sometimes it is amazing what can be packed onto the screen but Reading Eggs does it with finesse. Graphics create interest in the content!
Interactive - probably the best example of interactivity that I have seen. Kids are moving well beyond drag and drop!
Based on a mastery learning model - students are required to master the concept before moving on. Additional supports are given if a student does not achieve mastery.
Customizable for the student's level - the parent can change levels and the student can test into different levels.
Includes embedded games to reinforce the content - usually somewhat related to the gamification aspect of the course, the game might include the same character or environment. The games allow students to practice and test their knowledge.
Has a "play" section separate from the content - engages learners with extra resources and activities. Kids can also spend their earned money (aka "eggs) in this section.
Accountability - students are responsible for mastering the content to move ahead in the world they are in. Parents receive emails with detailed information once a student passes the assessment in each world.
If you are looking for a model course to review, I highly recommend that you sign up for a free trial and explore this program. My daughters have been using Reading Eggs for a few years. We choose it over similar programs that I will share here briefly.
ABC Mouse - This is also a very engaging course with many of the features of Reading Eggs. However, the gamified aspect of it is less cohesive. It also puts students in a classroom setting while Reading Eggs takes them to faraway lands. Free trial.
StarFall - A series of colorful and engaging games to help students learn to read. This is a great example of how games are different than gamification. Compare this program to Reading Eggs to see the difference in how students are led through the content. Much of the content is free.
Have you seen great examples of courses? Share them in the comments below!
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