The goal remains the same: to involve students in the material, letting them make their own books, and then using them as a drilling tool. The differences are in technology. Unlike some educational records that turn a good idea into a brighter electronic version, anki add ons actually use the environment. For example, virtual cards (also called “note cards”) can be randomized, and a test can be generated from the information contained in them. These multiple-choice tests use information from books in a stress-free test situation with a single mouse click.
Familiar environment for students; You learn the interactive graphical interface – without a training curve.
The programs are hosted online and viewed through a browser. There are no compatibility issues with different brands or models of computers and “always available” with an internet connection, including school computer labs.
Free – without economic discrimination.
An existing library of flashcards that students can access and contribute to.
The same look and feel as flashcards.
Practically unlimited storage space for sets of cards, sorted by subject.
Red flashcards have a bad rap because they seem to be structured for memory. While simple facts work well with flashcards and repetition, the story has much more. For example, if a student needs to make their own notebooks (possibly for a class), the only way they can do this is by using the material. This is a critical first step in the learning process. Entering information (especially when emphasizing spelling and sentence structure) adds a useful dimension. Moreover, the memorization of critical facts should not be thrown away.
When students master a subject’s basics, they can better understand more complex constructs and concepts. To manipulate the facts in a higher understanding, you must first master the facts. A final advantage of flashcards, even in memory, is that they are excellent for reference and review of critical information. Only this creates confidence in students who are otherwise very anxious and interfere with learning through worry.
Flashcards for assessment and the difficult student Although not primarily designed as a testing tool, a student’s progress is available. A set of flashcards created by teachers could certainly measure knowledge or identify weaknesses. The nice thing about using the system this way is that students don’t see it as a formal test or a test. Rather, it is closer to an online game or survey that you could take for entertainment. Another use is to give difficult students a quick analysis before a physical test. Students who do not need to see the value of a quick summary of relevant information next to the actual test may. Because virtual notebooks can be accessed wherever there is an Internet connection, they are as close as your nearest computer. If you give yourself five or ten minutes of review before a test, students at the limit can dramatically improve their scores.
