iBrainstorm

Title: iBrainstorm (iBrainstorm Companion for iPod Touch) Does not run as a stand alone app on iPod.

Grade Level: 2-12, students need to be able to type because the iPod (companion app) allows only text, drawing, although younger students could draw on the iPad.

Purpose: B+ A multi-device collaboration tool

Program Functionality: B- Allows up to four people to collaborate (somewhat) on a brainstorming diagram or group thinking process. Once the diagram or brainstorming has been completed, the diagram can easily be emailed to all participants. Must have an iPad for the iPods to be used. (ie. Teacher on iPad, students on iPods) As students type on the iPods, they just flick their finger and their ideas will be flipped over to the iPad. See YouTube demo: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oKFpEMG3BF4

Overall Educational Value: B Fun and engaging, but some teachers may prefer just using Sticky Notes, slates, or student response systems for similar effect in the younger grades. I think older students (5th and up) would prefer this method (more anonymity, perhaps). 

Price: Free!

Recommendation: Need to delete when typing a note on the iPhone, could be cumbersome. Would be great to add some features like choice among drawing tools: pen thickness, colors, the choice of note color, and the ability to have multiple pages. Also the ability to export to other programs would increase usability. 

Classroom Use Examples/Ideas: Need to be on the same local wifi, but can be used via Bluetooth if you turn off wifi on all devices. Students could collaborate on a diagram add text, note-taking. Could be used in small groups: teacher writes something and students add to it on iPod Touches and flip it over to the teacher. The need for an iPad is a bit of a drawback. YouTube demo of use with multiple devices: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KumchuR5R1A&feature=related

Developer Site: http://www.ibrainstormapp.com/

iTunes Link: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ibrainstorm/id382252825?mt=8

Comments

[Tecnoteach]

A great idea but a very temperamental App as keeps loosing connection or throws multiple copies of a sticky to a page.