Say goodbye to endless mind-numbing Netflix binges during lockdown and hello to apps and mobile games that can help develop your lateral thinking, vocabulary and creativity
You’ve managed to binge-watch every ‘must-see’ show on Netflix and refreshed Instagram to the point that there’s literally no new content. Now you're likely wondering what on earth are you going to do with all your spare time during this long bout of isolation. Well, perhaps it’s time for you to consider swapping your social media screen time for some more educational apps.
Phones have a bad reputation for being creativity killers, but the connectivity of phones do provide unparalleled learning opportunities—especially now, at a time of low social interaction.
From the classic New York Times crossword for a daily get-the-brain-started puzzle, to games that spark strategic, creative and out-of-the-box thinking, here are five apps you should try out while at home.
The New York Times Crossword
App Store Rating 4.7 stars.
Cost Free, but subscription is US$39.99 a year or $6.99 a month.
Platforms iOS, Android.
Introduction The New York Times official app for its print crosswords in a digital format.
Pro The app has over 20 years worth of the New York Times crossword puzzles to try out, if you choose to pay for the subscription. They’ve also updated their puzzles, so that their modern crosswords have features like related clues, revealing, checking and rebuses.
Con There is a free seven-day trial, but once it expires the free version only includes one mini-sized crossword a day. If you want to access more difficult crosswords or delve into themed crosswords, you’ll have to fork out US$39.99 a year or US$6.99 a month.
Good To Know The app is ranked twelfth in the world on the Apple app store.
Gen.T Editor Review “Since trying it for the first time about a month ago, I’ve stayed on the free plan and found it to be fun, entertaining and not necessary to upgrade. Doing the daily mini puzzle is an easy way to get your brain thinking laterally.”
See also: These Online Ivy League Courses Are Currently Being Offered For Free
Khan Academy
App Store Rating 4.1 stars.
Cost Free.
Platforms iOS, Android.
Introduction Founded by ex-hedge fund analyst Salman Khan, this education platform provides over 6,500 free video lessons, teaching everything from preparing for AP exams to entering the world of entrepreneurship.
Pro All the video lessons are interactive, with many courses offering quizzes, tests and instant feedback. Since the coronavirus outbreak—and the resulting closure of many schools globally—Khan Academy has also created special remote learning resources and daily schedules for children from 2-18.
Con While the videos are broad and cover most subjects taught at school, the videos are heavily focused on STEM subjects with less on the humanities.
Good To Know Bill Gates began using Khan Academy’s videos when he wanted to tutor his own kids, becoming an early supporter and fan of the platform.
Gen.T Editor Review “I’ve used this platform for years, recently moving over to the app version. It’s one of my favourite apps to use when I’m interested in learning a little more about something, be it coding or history. My favourite aspect being that I can learn at my own pace and whenever I choose.”