(App) Pocket PLO

created by Mr. Singbeil

A smartphone app for teachers that provides quick reference of the BC Prescribed Learning Outcomes. (Currently only available for Android Devices.)

About the Project:

Development started in July (2013). The app is currently in early stages but an alpha version is available for testing. If interested please consider installing the alpha version. More people means a variety of different android devices to test on and will lead to a more 'solid' final application.

Rationale:

Learning the PLOs is an overwhelming task for new teachers and I definitely feel it. It can be difficult to find the particular outcomes that I am trying to meet with an activity. The PDF files that the ministry provides, although very comprehensive, include a lot of information that is not important to the design of lessons. Furthermore I often find myself skipping straight to the PLO list and reading through them quickly. Furthermore, it is a challenge in itself to organize and keep track of these different documents either in print or digital format. I often download a new copy when I need them again but this tedious process requires an internet connection and patience.

Pocket PLO provides exactly what teachers need: A fast and easy way to review PLOs (and it doesn't need an internet connection to do it!). By also allowing users to create lists of PLOs it can help assist in the design of lessons, units, or even yearly plans.

The other reason I decided to take on this project was that I feel that there are a lot of ways in which technology could be used to assist teachers and students which have not been realized. This app is an attempt to, if not fill the gap, to at least bring attention to the idea that it is something developers can and should address.

Screenshots:

Current Features: (Phase 0)

• Searchable database that does not require an internet connection
• Search by grade and subject-area
• Results displayed on multiple pages
• Basic navigation implemented: Use the back button on your device to go back to the search menu. Use the arrow buttons in the app to navigate between pages of results.

Features in Development:

    Phase 1:

• Refine search with topic and sub-topic
• Search by text query

    Phase 2:

• Allow user to manually remove unwanted results and save PLO lists
• Load PLO lists and view/edit them

    Phase 3:

• Swipe navigation between pages of results
• Options menu to change settings in the app.
• Improved appearance

    Phase 4:

• Publish on Google Play store. (Most likely available for free)
• Develop cross platform versions for Windows Phone and iPhone

How to Install:

Because Pocket PLO is in early development, it is not available in the app store. To get it running you first need to enable debug/developer mode on your device. This page provides some step-by-step instructions for setting that up: http://droidviews.com/2013/how-to-enable-developer-optionsusb-debugging-mode-on-devices-with-android-4-2-jelly-bean/

After enabling developer mode, visit this link on your smartphone and download the file. When the download is complete, select the file and choose to install it.