myCSUNtablet

CSUN launches two custom iPad apps for Biology courses

January 21, 2016

iPad screen, showing the main menu of the Elite Gene Team app
An iPad screen displays the main menu for the Elite Gene Team app.

 

CSUN Information Technology is pleased to announce the launch of its first two custom-built iPad apps, created for students in myCSUNtablet courses. The apps, now available for free download on Apple's App Store, were designed by CSUN students and staff in consultation with Department of Biology faculty. Additional apps are currently in development.

Elite Gene Team

Developed for upper-division biology majors, Elite Gene Team focuses on advanced concepts in genetic inheritance. The app contains three quiz levels beginning with basic introductory concepts, then preparatory problem-solving genetic concepts, and the final level tests their ability to interpret the five Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance patterns presented in multiple problem-solving forms. Hints are provided in the preparatory level. Students can review answers at each level to this very challenging quiz app, and they must repeat each level until they reach a mastery of at least 90% correct. Once students have conquered all levels, they will be part of the Elite Gene Team. Content by Cindy Malone. Available in iOS8 and iOS9.

Download Elite Gene Team for your iPad on the App Store

Video of Professor Cindy Malone discussing the Elite Gene Team App:

Tree of Life: Explore

Designed for introductory biology, Tree of Life: Explore helps students learn, practice and play with the Tree of LIfe. This reduced tree contains ~100 taxa and 50 synapomorphies, from Bacteria, Archaea and Eukarya lineages (with an emphasis on Eukarya). The app contains four target trees with a basic (easy) and challenge mode. Content by Jeanne Robertson, inspired by ‘Teaching the Tree of Life to Undergraduate Students’, Harry Greene, Ph.D. (professor, Cornell University). Available in iOS8 and iOS9.

Download Tree of Life: Explore for your iPad on the App Store

If you have any questions about custom app development, please contact Greg Mena in the Faculty Technology Center.