I was excited about this, but am disappointed by the apps lack of realistic use.
1. The app crashes. I have yet to be able to log in using the app, nor have any of the other teachers. We have had to use the website.
2. They do not have a way for students to check their balance online. As of now there work through is that you can create a separate account that you would be responsible for logging in daily where the students can scan in. I have no option on real life to scan in to check my balance. I can check it in by logging in online, but not scan in.
3. There are free options that are more realistic and easier to use. Mykidsfreebank allows students to check their balance online independently. If you have several students who receive the same amount of points, you can mass deposit the same amount of points cutting down the time. In order to do that in ETM, you would have to great groups, which would be time consuming.
4. The card isn’t that educational. It’s just the same numbers on the front. It isn’t the greatest teaching tool. I get more out of having gift cards for students to make purchases with in real life (e.g., check balance online, make a “deposit” by refilling the card, sliding the card in the card reader).
I hope there will be changes. I found this program and requested to pilot it in our district with the purpose to see if it could be used across our whole district. I’m pretty embarrassed because usually what I suggest is impressive.