I have been making enquiries about getting an “app” for our school.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, the word “app” is an abbreviation of the term application and usually refers to a software program that runs through an iPhone, an iPad or a mobile phone with android technology. The following definition comes from http://smallbiztrends.com/2011/03/what-is-an-app.html:
An app typically refers to software used on a smartphone or mobile device such as the Android, iPhone, BlackBerry or iPad, as in “mobile app” or “iphone app.”
I have been investigating the viability of investing in a customised app for the school. A company called Digistorm (http://www.digistormeducation.com.au/) develop and design apps for schools that can carry a wide range of information accessible for parents, staff and students of the school including contacts, calendar, newsletters, pictures,etc. The app can be customised to match the school colours and logos.
It is not a cheap venture but with sufficient interest I am happy to go ahead. Is it something that you would be interested in? There would be no cost to download the app to your phone.
Let me know what you think.
LB
Although I think the application would be ideal, should the funds that are obviously available be used for more appropriate school needs.
I agree, we have a website already. An ‘app’ is not “needed” and could be better spent elsewhere. What would be more appropriate, I think, is to have a ‘mobile version’ of the Marri Grove website. That way those with mobile phones can view all the content as well.
I’d like to see more development towards a custom made website that the students and teachers can interact with and post information about “what things our kids are learning about”, so we don’t get the “dunno??” when we ask them
. It could have a forum, a blog for each class, private areas for staff and parents, contacts, calendar, newsletters, pictures,etc. If we have have a custom website we can organise our our advertising and keep all the profits, AND we can target local business.
I know the owner of http://www.ByfordWA.com and he said he’s happy to make Marri Grove PS a new custom website (that also has a mobile version) for nutin’.
Pete
I agree with Pete above. We already have a website yes an app in the future maybe a good idea. But think at the moment we could spend money on other things. Forum and class blogs would be great to see and Byfordwa.com gets us out in the wider community!
Keep up the hard work Marrigrove very good to see!
I’m all for technology – teaching our kids needs to also be balanced with families, and anything that helps bring parents into an inclusive educational environment is good in my book.
It would be nice to see more classroom updates on the current website, there are some that are completely empty, and I know there is definitely “stuff going on”…
For those of you with iPhones etc, here’s a great free app…
School A to Z By NSW Department of Education and Communities
http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/school-a-to-z/id434596986?mt=8
http://www.schoolatoz.nsw.edu.au/home