The education industry is undergoing a digital transformation, with traditional face-to-face learning giving way to eLearning apps and EdTech solutions. This change has been driven by causes such as the pandemic, leading to a projected $1.72 trillion increase in educational app development between 2022 and 2026. Due to social isolation and lockdowns, mobile learning solutions have become increasingly popular due to their flexibility and convenience. If you’re considering entering the education application development industry, brace yourself for stiff competition and read our in-depth guide to build an educational app (based on Topflight Apps research).
How the educational apps market is growing
Right now, the educational app business is thriving. EdTech was already expanding rapidly, but the pandemic provided it with a significant push. By 2030, the e-learning sector could be worth $645 billion. Despite declining financing for 2022, investors remain interested in e-learning firms with quick revenue opportunities. Some important considerations for creating educational apps:
- The EdTech market is worth $340 billion.
- Since 2020, the use of educational apps in K-12 schools has increased by 99%.
- The K-12 gamified learning market is expected to increase at a 20% annual rate until 2025.
- The most valuable tech unicorn is worth $21 billion.
The latest trends in E-learning
In order to develop a learning app that dominates the competition, you should first familiarize yourself with the ongoing trends in the E-learning industry. The sector of mobile learning app development is experiencing the emergence of several trends. Many of them are shifting the educational narrative. Some of these common trends are:
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality
One of the most promising areas of growth in the field of educational mobile app development is the use of augmented and virtual reality. Major players in the tech industry, like Facebook and Microsoft, are already preparing to use it. Therefore, every other smartphone now includes capabilities that facilitate the use of augmented and virtual reality in corporate training.
Artificial intelligence
The E-learning industry is being altered by integrating voice assistants and AI into mobile education app development. It has been reported that further machine learning LMS apps with AI capabilities are on the way.
Video streaming
This movement is being driven by the fact that learning is made more interesting by the real-time interaction between viewers and streams. Video conferencing makes distance learning possible, while streaming-focused services like Vimeo and Dacast promote multiple teaching methods.
Micro training
This teaching method breaks down complex topics into little chunks of information for easier absorption. Since knowledge is presented in bite-sized chunks that are easier to absorb, micro-training can also increase retention rates. Apps like Duolingo, Word of the Day, and flashcard games illustrate the effectiveness of the micro-training approach.
Gamification
The term “gamification” refers to the integration of game mechanics and technological solutions to problems in the field of education. The combination of gaming technology and education is intended to engage users and improve the learning experience.
Upsides of Educational Apps
The upsides to developing educational apps are given below:
For business
Cost-effectiveness
By eliminating the need for physical classrooms and the associated costs, educational applications are a sensible way to educate and train staff. This effectiveness allows for the reallocation of previously allocated funds to other areas of the company hence encouraging expansion.
More promising marketing
Companies can strengthen their marketing and public image by showing their dedication to lifelong learning and skill improvement. In addition to showcasing the company’s dedication to its employees, this action also serves as a magnet for new customers and investors.
Productivity tracking
Many learning applications have built-in metrics that allow employers to monitor the success of their training programs. With this method, businesses can better decide how to allocate training resources.
For customer
Developing new skillset
The convenience and accessibility of educational apps facilitate individual and professional development. This can lead to enhanced employability and advancement in your job.
Hassle-free learning
Students can study whenever and wherever they like, liberating themselves from the boundaries of the classroom setting. This adaptability ensures that learning fits around their hectic schedules.
Improved engagement
Incorporating interactive features and multimedia content into educational apps helps maintain students’ interest, motivation, and concentration. Students are more likely to retain material in an interactive classroom setting.
Advance teaching methods
Various educational applications are available to accommodate various learning styles and provide more individualized education. This individualized method allows for the most efficient learning possible by catering to a wide range of learning styles and levels.
Education application development- Steps and tips
Developing an educational app requires the following steps:
Choose the right niche
It’s important to plan ahead of time before beginning to design an app. This is known as ideation, and it involves studying the market and competitors to determine how to develop your app. If you don’t complete this step, you might create an app that users don’t want.
Shape the concept app and add features
Your app development team refines the project scope and identifies specific project requirements in this phase. They start with general requirements and work their way down to specifics like business requirements, user specifications, and system limits.
Designing compelling UI/UX
Following that, a UI/UX team creates an appealing user interface while keeping usability in mind. Their goal is to produce a streamlined design that is simple to use and provides a seamless experience. The user experience differs according to age group. Visuals, media, colors, and gamified material are all essential for preschool apps. Animation improves learning and knowledge retention across all levels.
Selecting the development approach
Choosing the appropriate tech stack is now essential for any educational app. Your selection should fit the app’s criteria, taking complexity and launch time into account. This selection is influenced by elements such as essential functionality, platforms, and security.
Tracking time and costs involved
After the components are organized, the next step is calculation. Development expenses are directly proportional to project size and complexity.
Creating minimum viable product
The (MVP) is the product version that can be used to test the waters. The MVP has to offer sufficient primary features for early adopters to evaluate its value. Once the MVP is complete, it is released to the public for testing and feedback. This information is used to inform subsequent revisions and feature additions. An MVP allows for cheap idea validation.
Updating and improving
The maintenance team should provide ongoing support once the app has been thoroughly tested and released. The health of an app depends on regular maintenance.
Cost of developing an educational app
The price of education application development is determined by elements such as development time, testing, programming language, and security. Native choices include Kotlin for Android, Swift for iOS, and Flutter for cross-platform apps. Depending on factors like developer experience, functionality, design, and education, hourly rates can vary from $30 and above. Security and team composition, including Project Managers, UI/UX designers, developers, and QA engineers, are important considerations. Security is critical when it comes to children’s apps. A simple app can cost between $15,000 and $30,000, with precise resource requirements supplied in a complete table for apps catering to both teachers and students.
