Mobile

MindTap Mobile App Offers Offline E-Reader Capabilities

Cengage Learning added additional features to its MindTap Mobile app, including the ability to download textbooks onto smartphones in 10 seconds or less.

• By Sri Ravipati
• 08/24/16

Cengage Learning has added a number of features to its MindTap Mobile app, available for iPhone and Android smartphones. Among the enhancements is the function most requested by students: the ability to download textbooks and other learning materials to their phone in 10 seconds or less.   

Once a textbook is downloaded, users can “highlight, make notes, search and bookmark the reading material, regardless of whether they are connected to the internet or working offline,” according to Cengage.

“Offline learning capabilities help to ensure that students who don't have consistent access to the internet aren't at a disadvantage when it comes to their education,” said Jim Donohue, executive vice president and chief product officer at Cengage Learning, in a statement. “Our goal is to create confident learners through an engaging experience that conveniently fits into students' lifestyles. This upgrade is a direct response to students telling us what they need to succeed.”

MindTap Mobile has added several other features:

• “Master Flashcards,” or digital flashcards that students can use to work on particular subject areas;
• Upgraded practice quizzes for students to test knowledge and build confidence; and
• Improved notifications that enable teachers to send coursework alerts, due date reminders and personalized messages.

"I work full-time at night and am a full-time student during the day, so the MindTap Mobile app helps me stay on track as I balance my education, career and family commitments," said Rodney Douglas, a student at Texas Southern University, in a statement.  "I have my phone with me at all times, so I can learn whenever, wherever and however I want."

MindTap is available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play.