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In the field of educational technology, some apps might be getting too smart. There are more and more apps providing help for students.
PhotoMath
The new, seemingly magic app allows users to take pictures of a math problem, and then receive a step-by-step solution. It is now the number one free app on the App Store. A PhotoMath spokeswoman says educators have welcomed the app with positive reviews, but the software causes a lot of angry public discussion and disagreement. Why? It is because students can use it to cheat when doing their math homework.
Price: Free
iHomework
Whether you’re a high school student or a college student, there’s one thing you’ve got for sure: a lot of homework. iHomework can help you keep track of all your homework. It can help you arrange it in a particular order according to types, or based on deadlines.
Price: Free
Wolfram Alpha
Wolfram Alpha is similar to PhotoMath, but it focuses on older students studying high levels of math and doesn’t support photos. The service also produces step-by-step solutions to advanced topics, making it a popular tool for college students.
Price: $2.99
Homework Helper
Chinese Internet search company Baidu has launched (发起) an app called Homework Helper with which students can get answers to homework. Users post a picture or type their homework questions onto online forums (论坛), and those who answer the questions can win e-coins that can be used to buy devices like iPhones and laptops. The app has logged 5 million downloads, much to the concern of many parents who argue that the students spend less time thinking about challenging problems.
Price: Free
1. What is the problem of the app PhotoMath?
A. It can’t recognize pictures.
B. It doesn’t provide a step-by-step solution.
C. It encourages students to use smartphones.
D. It makes cheating at homework more likely to happen.
2. What is the big feature of Wolfram Alpha?
A. Offering services to office workers.
B. Making students organize their school work.
C. Helping deal with advanced math problems.
D. Creating chances to discuss math online.
3. What do we learn about Homework Helper?
A. It is thought highly of by teachers.
B. It is unpopular among Chinese students.
C. Many parents think it harmful to children’s study.
D. Answering questions on the app wastes students’ time.
