NSF Science Zone

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A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this app.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that Science 360 is a free, high-quality science and engineering news and information app published by the National Science Foundation. The scores of videos here -- including scientists interacting with jellyfish or mathematicians studying how snakes move to help create new mechanical engineering programs -- will appeal to science- and nature-loving kids. Others features, like text-only segments about motorized nanocars or computer charged density of FeO, may be too esoteric for most younger kids or teens who aren't science minded. Users can share what they find here via Facebook, Twitter, and email.
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User Reviews
- Parents say
- Kids say
So much Science!
Science at your fingertips!
Is it any good?
Downloading SCIENCE 360 is like introducing your kids to the brightest minds and the most interesting work currently being done in a variety of science, math, and engineering fields around the world. Younger kids may only want to watch the videos, as the text in many of the segments contains higher-level vocabulary. But there is something here to learn for anyone of almost any age. The fact that this app will hold your kid's attention (or yours) for hours on end is not surprising. What is incredible is that it's free.
Talk to your kids about ...
Watch videos or read stories on this site with your kid and note the diversity of the scientists, conveying that anyone can be a scientist.
Talk about ways science impacts daily life. For example, one segment talks about how science can help you track your energy usage via smartphone. How could you use this kind of data in your home?
App details
- Devices: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android
- Subjects: Science: biology, chemistry, physics
- Skills: Thinking & Reasoning: asking questions, investigation, thinking critically
- Pricing structure: Free
- Release date: December 10, 2019
- Category: Education
- Size: 60.20 MB
- Publisher: National Science Foundation
- Version: 2.1.1
- Minimum software requirements: iOS 11.0 or later; Android 4.2 and up
- Last updated: November 11, 2020
Our editors recommend
For kids who love science
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.