Out of this world learning for young kids
Community Review for Star Walk Kids: Astronomy Game
My Take
I always have a couple of students who are fascinated by space, and this app really captivates them. It's a great teaching tool because space is relatively abstract for young learners.This app makes the stars seem more tangible when it maps out constellations on a handheld device. The animations/simulations help students understand the complexities of space in terms that are appropriate for younger ages. Additionally, this app provides opportunities to construct some of their own knowledge as they explore the constellations and the night sky.
How I Use It
As much as I love the constellation gyroscope, this app stands out to me because of the simulations/animations when it comes to my students (preschool students with autism). Space is a tough thing to understand, especially for young children. The cartoon-like graphics are appealing to young learners and illustrate concepts at their level. This app would be a great addition to a unit about space--letting students extend their thinking individually or in small groups. I am also planning to use this app during our upcoming Stargazing night at school.