DragonBox Apps
DragonBox was founded by Jean-Baptiste Huynh, a math teacher who observed the difficulties his students faced with algebra. To address these challenges, he teamed up with Patrick Marchal, a Ph.D. in cognitive science, to create WeWantToKnow, the company behind DragonBox. Their first app, DragonBox Algebra 5+, launched in 2011, was designed to simplify algebra, making it engaging and accessible. This innovative approach quickly gained international recognition, positioning DragonBox as a pioneer in educational games that make learning math enjoyable and effective (DragonBox) (DragonBox).
Differentiation: What Makes It Special DragonBox stands out in the educational app space through its unique game-based approach to teaching fundamental math concepts. The apps use digital manipulatives and interactive gameplay to teach everything from basic number sense to complex algebraic equations. This method not only keeps children engaged but also enhances their understanding and retention of mathematical concepts. DragonBox's success is further underscored by its integration into Kahoot!'s global learning platform, which has expanded its reach and impact (DragonBox) (DragonBox) (Kahoot!).
How to Get Started Getting started with DragonBox is straightforward. Parents can download the various apps directly from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Each game is designed to be intuitive, allowing children to dive right into learning without lengthy setups (DragonBox).
How It Works DragonBox apps are ideal for homeschooling as they require minimal adult supervision. The recommended usage is about 20-30 minutes per day. The games are largely self-directed, with children progressing at their own pace. This setup allows for flexibility in integrating math lessons into a broader homeschool curriculum. The apps cover a range of topics, ensuring that there are suitable challenges for different age groups and skill levels (DragonBox) (DragonBox).
What Educational Subjects It Includes
Basic number concepts and operations
Algebra (beginner to advanced levels)
Geometry through interactive Euclidian proofs
Arithmetic operations, including addition and subtraction with carries
Properties and relations of geometric shapes
What’s Good About It Users love the engaging and interactive nature of DragonBox apps. The design and gameplay are tailored to transform mundane mathematical concepts into exciting challenges. This approach significantly reduces the anxiety and boredom typically associated with math, making it a favorite among children and parents alike (DragonBox).
What Could Be Improved While DragonBox excels in making math fun, some users feel that the apps could benefit from more detailed explanations of mathematical concepts. Additionally, as the difficulty increases, some children might require additional guidance from parents or educators (DragonBox).
Advice from Parents on How to Get the Most Out of It Parents suggest integrating DragonBox games as a regular part of the homeschooling schedule, ensuring consistent engagement. It's also beneficial to discuss the concepts learned in the apps to reinforce understanding and application of the math skills beyond the games (DragonBox).
Who It’s an Ideal Fit For DragonBox is perfect for children who enjoy interactive learning and games. It suits those who might find traditional math teaching methods intimidating or dull. The apps are especially effective for visual and hands-on learners who benefit from seeing concepts in action (DragonBox).
Who It’s Probably Not a Fit For Children who thrive on direct instruction or those who prefer less screen time might find DragonBox less appealing. It might also not suit those who require more structured or traditional approaches to math learning (DragonBox).
Grades The apps cater to a wide range of ages, generally from kindergarten through middle school.
Cost The apps are available individually or through subscriptions, with prices ranging from $5 to $8 per app. Bundle offers are also available, providing cost-effective solutions for families (DragonBox).
Ways to Get It DragonBox apps can be purchased directly from the App Store and Google Play. Subscriptions and bundles may offer additional features and access to multiple games (DragonBox).
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For the last 20 years, I’ve taught over 2000 children in 3 countries (of all socio-economic backgrounds). I pioneered an English language program in a conflict region in the Middle East. I’ve worked as a bilingual public school teacher at some of the highest and lowest performing public schools and in all five boroughs of NYC. I’ve tutored 18 subjects in three languages to some of the wealthiest families in NYC, San Francisco and Paris to make up for shortcomings in private schools they were paying up to $60,000 a year to attend.
Since 2015, I’ve helped hundreds of parents start microschools (way before this was a household buzzword). I founded CottageClass, the first marketplace for microschools and learning pods that was part of the Techstars 2018 class. In 2019, I created a virtual learning program to help families through the pandemic, a free online math tutoring program (masteryhour.org), and schoolclosures.org, a hotline developed in collaboration with Twilio and 80 other partners including Khan Academy, Revolution Foods and the Crisis Text Line, that served 100,000 families impacted by school closures.
I’ve climbed trees with children in forest schools in San Francisco, and tested new digital apps with kids in seven countries.
I’ve also coached dozens of families at different stages in their homeschooling journey. Most recently, I founded Modulo with homeschooling dad, best-selling author and tech entrepreneur Eric Ries, to help families curate their children’s education, social and childcare experiences drawing from a diverse array of in-person and online resources.
During the last three years, I’ve devoted much of my time to reviewing and testing secular homeschooling curriculum and other resource. I’ve spent the last three years talking to thousands of secular homeschooling families, and poring over tens of thousands of secular curriculum reviews and testing physical curriculum and digital apps for with hundreds of students to find the highest quality, most engaging, personalized learning materials for every type of learner.
I’ve spoken about homeschooling and modular learning at multiple venues including SXSW EDU, NY Tech Meetup, and on the LiberatedEd podcast.
In 2022, Modulo was one of 8 organizations who were awarded the Bridge Grant from the Vela Education Fund to expand access to homeschooling and modular learning to under-resourced communities.
My experience in education and homeschooling has led me to believe that there is no perfect education for every child, but families have an extraordinary amount of wisdom they can apply to building the perfect education for their individual child.
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I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Brandeis University with highest honors, with a double degree in French Literature and American Studies and minors in Environmental Studies and Peace & Conflict Studies.
And I love to learn!
Right Start Math review: For a highly visual, and hands-on math curriculum, Right Start Math is a favorite mastery-based choice for families that dislike worksheets. A phenomenal option for kids who thrive with hands-on-learning, gifted kids, and also children with dyscalculia.