NSF Science Zone

App review by Dana Anderson, Common Sense Media
NSF Science Zone Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 8+

Amazing free app sparks imagination and learning.

iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android Free Education
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Parents say

age 9+

Based on 1 review

Kids say

age 9+

Based on 1 review

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  • Science360 for iPad App: Screenshot #1
  • Science360 for iPad App: Screenshot #2
  • Science360 for iPad App: Screenshot #3

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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.

Community Reviews

kmattina
kmattina Adult
February 17, 2014
age 9+

So much Science!

Science 360 is an app that has many videos about different Science subjects. This is app is fun for exploring but is not something that will help you learn more about a certain subject. Science 360 has a lot of pictures that students can click on to read more or watch a video. Sometimes the videos take too long too load and some kids had the app freeze or quit. Also, some of the videos are inappropriate for young kids and could scare them. It is a very fun app to use if you want to learn new science facts but it is not very good for looking up certin subjects. In conclusion, Science 360 is a fun app for playing but not a great app for learning.
See all 1 parent review

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

Our Editors Recommend

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