10 Great, Free Apps for Students for Notetaking and Class Planning

These days, there are some great apps for students to use to take notes for class, or to use as class planners.



1. Evernote and EverStudent

My favorite is Evernote. I use it for everything, literally, and many of my students use it for taking notes, clipping web pages, creating to do lists, and more. There is also a new Android app available, called EverStudent, that integrates with Evernote and acts as a planner for students. EverStudent allows students to manage tasks and assignments with a planner interface by class, color code classes, add instructor info to your notes and group classes by semester or term. All the information is synced to Evernote for access from any device and to share with others. It is available for Android only.





2. Skitch

Skitch also works with Evernote and allows you to create sketches and annotate, edit and save photos and your sketches. Students could use this to take notes or sketches that can't be done with just text. It's available for Android and Mac. iOS version is coming.



3. MySchoolNotebook

MySchoolNotebook is another note taking app I just reviewed earlier here: http://educationaltechnologyguy.blogspot.com/2012/02/myschoolnotebook-free-onlineapps-for.html


4. Memonic

Memonic is similar to other note taking tools in that you can clip web content, take text notes, share notes, and access it from any computer. There are also apps for iOS and Android. You can also email a note to your Memonic account from any computer.

There is also a feature coming that will allow you to use Memonic's web clipper to save notes directly to your Evernote account.




5. SimpleNote

SimpleNote is exactly what it's name says - it's a free, simple note taking app. Notes are just text. However, it does have some great features. You can access it from any computer or web-enabled device. You can easily start and make a note and even share it with others. Your notes are searchable with tags and content search, and there are some extensions and add-ons that you can use with it.





6. SpringPad

Springpad is a notes and organizing service that allows you to create and organize tasks in a different way than Evernote, and organizes your notes differently. You can take notes, clip web sites, create task lists, and more, just like in Evernote, but you can also import data from a bar code, search by location, and add photos. You can organize things by notebooks and tags like in Evernote, but Springpad also has "The Board" which is a digital cork board to help you organize the important things.

Springpad is free, and is available via web app and for iPhone, iPad, and Android.



7. TrackClass

Trackclass is a great, free resource for students. The site allows students to track their classes and assignments, and even will send reminders (email or SMS) for upcoming assignment due dates and test dates. There is also a note taking utility so students can take notes on it if they have a computer in school, or transcribe notes later. You can even attach files to each class and assignment to keep things organized. It is a great way for students to stay organized.

8. Soshiku 

Shoshiku is another free class organizer, similar to Trackclass. It has a calendar, notes, task list, and reminder system like Trackclass. It is not as full featured, in my opinion, as Trackclass, but it is easy to use and some students may like it better than Trackclass.

9a. Paper Planners - Even today, with students having smartphones and laptops and tablets, some still prefer to use paper planners. I use to use Franklin Quest planners until I got my first PDA (A Palm IIIxe in 2000). Some planners can be customized for your school too. We give every student a planner that includes schedules, calendar, homework and assignment lists, and even a hall pass log.

Here are some links to some paper planners. They are obviously not free. Students could also print out blank calendar and planner pages that you can find online and use them as a free paper planner.

Franklin Covey - great paper planning systems, but a little pricey for students.
Day Timer paper planners
DIY Planner - make and print your own planner pages
Planner Pads - paper planners
Day Runner - paper planners
Mead Student Planners
At-A-Glance
Student Planner USA - some nice ones on here (and not expensive)
SchoolMate Student Planners

9b. LiveScribe smart pen

Students could use a LiveScribe smart pen to take paper notes, but have those notes synced to their computer (and even to Evernote). This is a good option for math, science, and engineering, where you really can't take good notes using a keyboard. It also has a voice recorder to record what the teacher is saying. You can buy notebooks, or print out your own paper notes.

10. Google - Calendar, Docs, and Task List 

Google is another great way to get organized and take notes. Google Calendar is a great way to organize class schedules, assignment due dates with reminders and more. You can even color code classes and assignments. If the teacher uses Google Calendar for the class, you can just view that calendar with yours. Google Docs can be used for taking notes and the Tasks can be used as a task list. They can be accessed from any computer or mobile device.


Share these with your students (and use some yourself).

What are your favorite apps for taking notes and getting organized?

Related:

Evernote - notetaking, web clipping, and more, on any device

Comparison of some popular note taking apps

Getting Students and Teachers Organized - tips and resources - includes links and resources for electronic and paper planning

10 Things Students Use Technology for in my Class

10 Tech Skills Every Student Should Have

Earlier this month, I wrote "10 Important Skills Students Need for the Future." After reading a few articles about specific tech skills, I thought I write what I think are the 10 Important Tech Skills Students Need.

1. Internet Search - students need to know how to do a proper internet search, using search terms and modifiers. This skill is needed for school, work and life in general.
Tips on Better Searches (from Google)
Infographic on Better Searches
Common Craft Video on Web Search Strategies


2. Office Suite Skills - students need to now how to create, edit, and modify documents, presentations, and spreadsheets. Businesses still use MS Office for the most part, but iWorks, OpenOffice / LibreOffice, and Google Docs are all getting more popular. They all work similarly so the learning curve when switching isn't that big.
Alternatives to MS Office
Free Alternatives to Paid Software


3. Self learning of tech and where to go for help - knowing how to search a help menu on software or hardware, where to go to find user forums for help, and where to find the manual for technology is a huge skill that many do not know about.

Free Tech Tips and Help
TechEase - technology tips
Online Tech Tips - hardware, software, and more
Tech Support help



4. Typing - yes, typing. I can get much more work done since I know how to type, than people who don't. It's a skill that is necessary for any kind of writing.
Learn to Type


5. Social Media - how to properly use social media for school and work, how to protect yourself on it, the issues of cyberbullying, connecting with others in your profession (PLN).
Twitter, Google+, Facebook comparison
Twitter, Facebook, RSS, Email, Google+ - tips on use
Facebook and Google+ security and privacy
Common Craft Video on Social Media
Create a Personal Learning Network


6. Netiquette - Internet/Email/Social Media etiquette - proper way to use the internet, write professional emails, use social media in relation to your job (not complaining about the boss).
Netiquette - Wikipedia


7. Security and Safety - antivirus, spam, phishing, too much personal information sharing, stalkers, and more are all issues they need to know about.
Internet Safety Resources
Google Family Safety Center
Google Good to Know online safety and internet data
Common Craft Video on Secure Passwords


8. Hardware basics and troubleshooting - knowing what different parts of technology are called, how to make minor fixes, and how to do basic troubleshooting for WiFi, networks, OS won't load, etc.
Free Tech Tips and Help
TechEase - technology tips
Online Tech Tips - hardware, software, and more
Tech Support help


9. Backup data - with all of the data that students create for school and work, it is important to back it up and have access to it at any time.
Backup your Data - tools and resources
Google Takeout - export your Google data


10. Finding apps and software - how to find, evaluate, and use apps for school and business. Also, how to find quality, free alternatives to paid software, apps and services.
Quixey - Search engine for apps
Free Alternatives to Paid Software
Google Apps Resources
Free Apps
On device apps/software vs. web apps
SmartPhone Experts - apps, reviews, tech tips, and more for all smartphones



What do you think are the top tech skills students need to know?


UPDATED:

As "MisterS" pointed out in the comments, I'm missing an important one:

11. Copyright and Citing Sources - students need to understand copyright laws and rules, how to cite a resource, and how to integrate someone else's work into their's properly.
Taking the Mystery out of Copyright
Citation Help

Essentials Bag for Students - what they need to have

What I think students should have in their school bag (high school and college) as essential materials.

1. Laptop or Tablet and charger - depends on student needs, school policies, etc.

2. Notetaking app - Evernote, Simplenote, etc.

3. Cloud file service - ok, not in bag, but a must have to backup and access files

4. Flash drive for backup

5. Smartphone and Charger. Apps: Evernote, Cloud file service, calculator, LMS app for their school, etc.

6. Pen and pencil and eraser

7. Notepad

8. 3-ring binder for paper notes and handouts

9. Mini stapler

10. Hole punch to put papers into binder


What would you include?



Related:

My Favorite Resources for Educators and Students

Notetaking Apps - a comparison of some of the popular ones

10 Things Students use technology for in my class

The other day, I posted an article entitled "Technology I use on a Daily Basis - updated for this year" which detailed the technology I use myself to get organized, communicate with students and parents, and as lesson resources and tools. Today, I'd like to talk about the technology that my students use in my class.

1. There are 7 student computers in my classroom that students use throughout the year for various projects and work.
2. Students use the web for research and for web quests on different topics.
3. Students use the computers and web to create projects, using PowerPoint, Google Docs, Glogster, Prezi, Blogger, Google Sites and other online services instead of paper and pencil. I want them to be able to create things in class, instead of just doing lectures and homework problems. 
4. Students use the class blog and class websites to access information, check the class schedule, retrieve class notes and references, and to communicate with me and other students. 
5. Students access www.physicsclassroom.com for help and "tutoring" on physics concepts. 
6. Students access http://phet.colorado.edu/ (PhET) to access physics simulations and do virtual labs and explorations of topics. 
7. Even though it is against school and district policy, I've let students use their smart phones as learning tools - look up things on the web or use them as calculators. Already own the smartphone, so why spend more money on a graphing calculator that costs $150 when they can get a $1.99 app?
8. I also have some Vernier sensors that we use in class and a I just received a Netbook that we will be using the Vernier sensors with on projects outside of the classroom soon. 
9. Students use email to communicate directly with me when they have questions or issues. 
10. Students use Google Calendar, Evernote, Trackclass, Dweeber and more to stay organized, communicate and succeed. 

Students use technology in my class to do things differently, do different things, to communicate, create, organize, get help, explore, learn and to expand the learning experience outside of the classroom. 

Updated - Summary of Great Web 2.0 Resources for Students

Summary of Great Web 2.0 Resources for Students

All are free. 

1. Evernote - take notes, collect web clippings, upload files, share notes with classmates, get organized.

It is one of the best ways to stay organized and an indispensable tool for students.

2. Trackclass - is a great, free resource for students. The site allows students to track their classes and assignments, and even will send reminders (email or SMS) for upcoming assignment due dates and test dates. There is also a note taking utility so students can take notes on it if they have a computer in school.

3.Dweeber - is a homework collaboration site that also has tools to help students learn better. It is described as a homework social network. Students sign up, for free, and can add their friends, known as "dweebs" to their network. Students can work on homework together and help each other out. It even as a virtual whiteboard so that they can work together just as if they were in the same room.

4. File backup and Sync - Drobox - is a service that allows you to sync your files on your computer with their system as a backup. This also allows you to access the files anywhere. You can also sync the files across multiple computers. No need for USB drives anymore. Sugarsync is another great backup and sync service that is very similar to Dropbox.

5. Cybraryman Educational Websites - Cybraryman has a great web site with tons of resources, sorted into different categories. The student section is excellent. This is a great site to go to for anything related to education.

6. Digital Literacy - Our students live in a digital world and need digital literacy and how to be safe online. This site has some great information and resources.



7.  Google - Docs, Calendar, Gmail, Search, Tasks, iGoogle, Bookmarks, Reader, Google student blog, Blogger, Sites, Picasa - info, research, organizing, portfolios...

Google is an excellent resource for students. They can create and collaborate on projects using Docs, stay organized with Calendar and Tasks and iGoogle, save their Bookmarks, create a blog or website, upload and share photos, create e-portfolios, do research, and so much more.

8. OpenOffice and OpenOffice for Kids - OpenOffice is a free office suite that is a great alternative to Microsoft Office (and free!). LibreOffice is a new version that is being released by the same group that started OpenOffice. OpenOffice for Kids is a scaled down version targeted at kids, ages 7-12.
 

9. Smartphone Experts - More and more students use smartphone's these days. Smartphone Experts is a group of websites dedicated to smartphones. There are different sites for each smartphones, from Android to iPhone to Blackberry to HP/Palm webOS. They offer tips, reviews, app news, and much more, helping people to make the most of their smartphones. Since our students have these pocket computers, why not give them a resource to help them use them more effectively.

10. Notely - free online organizational tool for students - calendar, to-do list, homework organizer and notes section. Great for staying organized and not forgetting things.

Notely was a great resource. It is now gone from the internet and I couldn't find any information about what happened.

11. Web 2.0 Tools for Students is a list of 30 great tools for students. The site is set up nicely using Jog the Web and allows you to click through each tool. As you go through, you are actually seeing the live page of the tools. Tools include: Mind42, Wordle, Wikispaces, Animoto, and 26 others.

12. CoSketch.com is a free service that allows you to create online sketches and share them with other people, in real time. You can also save your sketch as an image. The sketch tools include text, colors, lines, curves, shapes, and more. It is completely online and runs in any browser without the need for plugins. You can also import images and Google maps images.

13. Scribblar is an online meeting room / white board. Students can use it to collaborate on projects, teachers can tutor via the computer, and teachers can use it for collaborative meetings and projects. Scribblar gives the users a virtual white board on the screen and writing tools to create text, lines and shapes. They can even add images. There is also a chat window on the side bar so that users can talk to each other while working. There is even a live chat system if you have a microphone and speakers.

And, last but not least, Their teachers. Teachers are the single best resource for students. We can lead them to other resources like the ones above and we can help them use them. We also can help them understand and use those resources.

Some more resources:

Google and More for Students

Citation help resources - make citing sources easier

5 Free Must-Have iPhone Apps for Students - guest post

Google Student Blog

101+ Web Resources for Students

Study Tips and Notetaking Resources

Zinch.com - Free College service for students

Notely - free, full function, student organizational tool

Notely is a student organizational tool, designed by a college student in the UK.

Notely is free, easy to use, has a mobile site and has lots of great features. Notely includes a Calendar, To-Do list, Homework organizer, Notes section, and allows you to organize links, contacts, files, and your classes. You can upload files to keep them organized with your class notes.

Tasks in your to-do list have due dates and are listed in that order. The notes function is a fully functional word processor that allows you to add formatting, links, highlighting, and images to your notes. The calendar can even remind you of upcoming events.

You can sync your calendar with iCal downloads of your calendar and to-do list and export notes to PDF, DOC, and TXT formats.You can also email notes and export all the data in an Excel spreadsheet.

The site has some nice videos that show you how to use it.

I am a huge proponent of Web 2.0 tools that help students get organized and Notely fits that category. It takes all the tools a student needs and puts them in one place.





Similar tools:

Evernote

Trackclass, Soshiku, Dweeber

Springpad

Google - calendar, email, tasks, docs

More Educational Apps for Palm webOS

FOR EDUCATION

Palm's new operating system, webOS, is gaining more and more apps each day. While the iPhone and Android get the most media attention, Palm is slowly gaining share. Many teachers used Palm PDA's in class in the early part of decade. If they are looking for the same ease of use with increased productivity, functionality, and graphics, they should check out webOS on the Palm Pre and Palm Pixi.

Two new apps were released today that would be great for education:

1. Quizmine Math Reference - this app is a math reference app that allows you to get quick and easy access to math formulas from arithmetic, algebra, geometry, measurement, trigonometry and derivatives. $0.99

UPDATE: Quizmine also has a great Physics reference app too!

2. Soshiku - this app is a simple, but powerful tool for students to use to manage their classes and assignments. It will keep track of assignment due dates and will notify you by email or text message to remind you it is due. For each assignment, you can add notes, tasks, view attachments, and share messages with assignment partners. The app syncs with the free account on Soshiku.com. $1.99

And of course webOS phones have all the basic features:

contacts, email, excellent web browser with Flash support, text messaging, camera, phone, tasks, media players, note taking, and lots more, including Evernote, Twitter, Facebook and Google.

Some additional apps that are great for education:

Evernote - "remember everyting"

A+ Student Organizer - keep track of schedule, grades, calculate GPA, assignments, tasks

Flash Cards - create your own flashcards, download from site, or download user created

Easy Stopwatch - useful for keeping time and in science labs

Seismograph - show students how vibrations are recorded

Dictionary

Convert - unit conversion calculator

Newsfeed - RSS reader

pReader - ebook reader

Epocrates - excellent medical reference

Wapedia - encyclopedia

SciCalc - scientific calculator

Periodic Table - interactive periodic table of the elements

World Atlas - world atlas with data on countries and regions

Twee - Twitter app

AP Mobile - news from the Associated Press

New York Times - read the NYT

There are also apps to learn Spanish, a grade book app for teachers, math games, and much, much more.

And, you can use all of those older Palm OS apps (Centro, Treo, TX, T3, etc) by using the app "Classic" on the Pre or Pixi. It will then run the old Palm OS apps on the Pre or Pixi. Pretty cool!

More Palm webOS Apps for Pre and Pixi at Precentral.net

Related Articles:

** Palm Apps for Education ** (really a companion to this article)

Resources for Students - Soshiku, TrackClass, and Dweeber

Review of the Palm Pre+ and Palm Pixi+

Palm's webOS vs. iPhone