63,000 downloads for new Learning Potential App

04 Sep 2015 Media release

More than 63,000 people have downloaded the Australian Government’s new Learning Potential app since its launch two weeks ago, making it the number one free app in the education category in iTunes and Google Play.

The innovative free app was launched by Minister for Education and Training, the Hon Christopher Pyne MP, in Adelaide two weeks ago and is already proving popular among parents and educators.

“The Learning Potential app offers inspiring ways for parents, grandparents and carers to become more involved in their children’s learning, from the high chair to high school,” Mr Pyne said.

“Learning Potential is a simple, quick and informative way for parents to tap into and share tips, ideas and advice with respect to their children’s education.

“And with more than 63,000 downloads of the app within the first two weeks, clearly it is resonating with Australian parents.”

Minister Pyne said Learning Potential includes 11 short videos and 142 articles, developed in consultation with Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority.

“The great thing about Learning Potential is that it is engaging parents as much as it is helping them to engage with their children, so they can enjoy quality learning time together.

“Parents can personalise the app for one or more children and it is completely private – no data is collected,” Mr Pyne said.

The app encourages parents to get more involved in their children’s education. It is free to download on Android and Apple devices, and is packed full of great articles and informative videos, tips and suggestions.

Nationals Senator for Victoria and chair of the Senate Education and Employment Legislation Committee, Bridget McKenzie, said the app was ideal for parents to become more involved in their child’s learning.

"Research shows that when parents are involved with their child's learning, it can have a very positive impact on their education outcomes," Senator McKenzie said.

"While parents are spending valuable time with their child, it is building the child's confidence," she said.

The app is also resonating within the community.

Acting CEO of The Smith Family, Wendy Field, said resources such as the Learning Potential app can contribute to children’s home learning environment.

“Parental engagement is more than attending school fetes, volunteering on the P&C, and attending parent/teacher nights, Ms Field said.

“It's also about parents taking an active interest and getting involved in their child's learning journey, and the Learning Potential app can help with that,” she said.

National Program Director of the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth, Penny Dakin, said parental engagement can significantly boost a child’s learning outcomes.

“Families guide their children’s orientation towards learning from birth,” Ms Dakin said.

“This means that, regardless of parents’ occupation, education or income, families help children and young people to be motivated and confident learners,” she said.

You can find out more at www.australia.gov.au/learningpotential.