CARROLLTON, GA – Is there an app for that? Chances are, if not, Carrollton High School computer science students are up for the challenge to create it, especially if the intent is to improve education. CHS tech-savvy teen designers have developed more than 50 apps for Android and iOS smart phones, creating products to make studying and learning easier.
The most recent app, launched just before Christmas break, was introduced to CHS students this week to help high schoolers prepare and study for the ACT and SAT college assessment tests. Named Exam Hub, the app offers scheduling info for test taking, useful vocabulary reviews, and is available on both smart phone platforms.
“This is our first app that is available on both major app stores,” said Robby Blakemore, computer science teacher at CHS. “We’re pretty proud of that.”
Most of the apps students have developed are for Android phones and can be found on Google Play by searching “CHS Trojan CS.” Four CHS apps available on iOS can be downloaded from the Apple App Store. They are Exam Hub for the high schoolers, Trojan Quick Math and Trojan Sight Words for elementary use, and Football Play Call Tracker for the sports enthusiast.
Blakemore said more than 2,000 Android downloads have been recorded. And although there are only four iOS apps, they have been viewed 8,000 times resulting in almost 600 downloads.
To further gauge the popularity of the apps, Blakemore pushed out an App of the Semester contest in December. Exam Hub placed first with 37 percent of the vote, followed by Christmas Pictionary with 26 percent.
The elementary school products also have been well received. Alison Crawford, a Carrollton Elementary School teacher who is also a parent, said Trojan Quick Math proved to be a useful technology tool.
“Trojan Quick Math has been a great asset in providing a home-to-school connection,” she said. “It is a true support of classroom learning and my students are excited and motivated to practice their math facts.” Blakemore said this app has been downloaded almost 200 times with Trojan Sight words not far behind.
Two student app designers, seniors Taylor Gray and Amber Zheng, especially enjoyed creating the elementary apps.
“Having the opportunity to create apps that are positively impacting young Trojans is very rewarding,” said Taylor. “Hopefully the addition of these resources at the elementary school will spark an interest in computer science at a young age.”
Amber Zheng also noted value from an altruistic perspective.
“Being able to work on apps that help our school’s younger grades has been an incredible way to give back to the school system,” she said. “This opportunity has opened my eyes to the endless possibilities with new technology. It is amazing to be part of a computer science program that is dedicated to creations that help everybody!”
CUTLINE
Robby Blakemore, computer science teacher at CHS, discusses the development of a gaming app with seniors Cassandra Wilmot and Nick Young. Cassandra is the creator of the program.
