Studytracks

Studytracks is an app that sets standard learning content to hip-hop-style songs, using the notes as lyrics. Originally created by a musician who wanted to help his teenage son study, the app has expanded into a learning platform with over 1,500 songs that can be used in the classroom or by students at home. Predicated on the concept that setting learning to music engages learners and aids retention, it enables kids to listen to single songs or create playlists to learn or review material. Students can choose from a variety of core subjects, and each song provides access to written notes ranging from one to four pages; the notes are presented as rapped and spoken words set to music. Each subject also comes with one or more 12-question tests that kids can take. In addition, there's a classroom version that allows teachers to assign playlists, track student progress, customize quizzes, and more.

The free version has limited access to songs and tests. The premium version has some perks, including access to videos, the chance to compete with other users, guest artists, and a chance to earn reward vouchers from popular companies such as Amazon and Supreme. These perks will keep kids interested in content, even when the songs and lyrics are less than catchy. 

Think of a childhood song. Do you remember all of the words? Chances are, you do. But as students get older, many teachers stop trying to reach them through music -- maybe it seems childish, or kids are reluctant to sing. Studytracks offers a way to reengage students through music and help them learn key terms and concepts along the way. Similar to how mnemonic devices enhance recall, setting information to music can make it memorable. Scaffolding supports are already built in: Every track has a set of notes that double as lyrics, along with quizzes and in some cases, videos.  

Studytracks' reliance on repetition of information is like an earworm, with the goal of long-term retention; the ability to retain this knowledge makes it easier to learn new concepts. Playlists allow teachers and students to personalize the experience to strengthen content knowledge, review concepts, or address learning gaps. And the multimodal nature of the songs, notes, videos, and quizzes allows students to engage with content in the ways that are most beneficial to them. Plus, students can listen while doing mundane things like driving or doing chores, encouraging them to learn when they don't have time for traditional studying. It would be nice if kids could submit lyrics -- especially ones that rhyme -- for a more memorable song. Another drawback: Since there's no search feature, teachers and students will have to do some work to put playlists together from the growing library of over 1,500 songs. But as it is, Studytracks provides a novel solution to an otherwise mundane task. Just be prepared for students to dance during tests.