Computer Systems

Computer Systems App Making Lesson 1 – Apps (Past, Present & Future).

Lesson Objectives • To know the development of app technology over recent time. • To recognise the importance of Apps in society and their development for the future. • Level 6b • I can envision a future of app technology and its affects on industry and society • Level 5b • I can analyse the impact of apps on different industries. • Level 4b • I can recognise the impact of apps in the modern world.

The Unit (1) • In this unit you will learn how to design a mobile application using the online resource ‘Blippit’. • You will look at the phenomenal rise of apps in our modern society and the role they have in the future of ICT. • You will then build two applications; one simple app lead through by the teacher and your own app for which you will be given a loose theme.

The Unit (2) • Given the nature of the groups and time we have available, you will build your apps in design view rather than using App coding languages such as ‘cocoa’. • You will however use some basic HTML language to embed images. You will build custom graphics for your app using Photoshop or Fireworks. • The apps will be published via QR codes direct to a teacher area. • You can download your app using the QR code direct to your phone.

Folder Structure Year 7

What is a Mobile App? • The term “app” comes from “application software”. • This implies that an app is designed to help the user perform a specific task. • “Mobile” implies that the app should be available to the user on a mobile device – e.g. a smart phone or tablet. • So a mobile app should help the user with a specific task and should be available to them on their mobile device

What Makes a GREAT App? • User interface • Relevant • Sticky (the app quickly becomes one you do not want to delete!)

Why Mobile Apps? • Give me 3 good reasons why I should bother! • Extend your reach. • Enhance your service. • Channel feedback and interaction.

Gaze into the Crystal Ball... • Everything becoming “connected”: • TV • Blu-Ray player • Kitchen??

In Pairs... In pairs, write down how many industries are set to be affected by apps. Which products may disappear from our stores?

Blippit capabilities. Can’s • Produce apps for both apple and android phones. • Produce multiple paged (layered) apps. • Can produce informational apps that suit businesses, schools for revision, hobbies etc… • Can be downloaded to your phone for free via a QR code. • Can insert your own graphics and images. • Multiple Widgets to make your app very varied. • Its free and you can build as many apps as you want. Cant's • Cannot build game apps YET! • Cannot build your own buttons or app icon graphics yet • Can’t publish to the app stores yet for free. (roughly £100 to do so)

Consolidate... • Apps in industry: Look at the industries detailed on this sheet and comment on what sort of apps could be used to help them in the future.

Computer Systems