In a world dominated by virtual communication, online classrooms now offer a way to study as effectively as in-person. E-learning is quickly evolving from a trend into a new reality, becoming more and more popular each year. It’s already a multi-billion industry, with the global market projected to reach US$1 trillion by 2032, according to Facts&Factors.

 

Many public institutions, businesses, and nonprofits are moving towards online education. However, implementing these new practices is challenging or even impossible without e-learning apps. 

 

For schools and universities, apps extend their reach to distant learners. Businesses benefit from efficient communication and employee onboarding. Non-profits use apps to train volunteers and staff, expanding their community impact. And even government agencies employ e-learning apps for public health or legal education.

 

If you are a forward-thinker who values quality education, this guide is for you. We’ll provide everything you need to know about e-learning app development and share Inoxoft’s expertise to show how next-generation learning solutions can enhance learning experiences. Let’s get started!

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Contents

E-learning App Development Market in 2024

As mentioned earlier, the e-learning industry is expected to grow quickly. Recent studies show that the market size reached US$251.46 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 17.58% until 2032.

E-Learning App Development Explained: Process, Costs, and Best Advice

The rise of online education and the widespread use of educational apps is attributed to several important factors. Here are some of them:

Increased demand for flexible learning

The COVID-19 pandemic has sped up the need for flexible learning, underscoring how adaptable institutions must be nowadays. 

A survey among students at TPG-affiliated universities shows that learners generally view flexible schedules positively, giving it an average rating of 3.6 on a scale of one to five. This isn’t surprising, considering that hybrid and remote learning models, like online education and educational apps, allow them to study at their convenience and pace.

Mobile-first learning

As smartphones and mobile devices become more widespread, educational platforms focus more on mobile-first approaches. This shift is also driven by the fact that, on average, people check their phones 144 times a day.

Educational materials and apps are now designed to work seamlessly on mobile devices, allowing learners to access content anytime and anywhere, thereby boosting engagement, and making studying a daily activity.

Focus on personalized learning

Today, personalization is a popular trend across nearly every existing industry. It’s no surprise, as research by the Brandon Hall Group indicates that companies implementing personalized learning saw a 34% increase in employee engagement. 

Personalized learning benefits both employees and employers by improving motivation, productivity, and retention rates. Mobile apps play a key role in making these benefits possible, using diverse settings and AI algorithms that cater to individual learners.

Microlearning

We all know that engaging young people can be challenging. In recent years, engagement among younger millennial and Gen Z employees has dropped by five points, from 40% to 35%. In contrast, the percentage of actively disengaged employees has risen by one point, from 13% to 14%.

The microlearning strategies deliver content in small, specific units or modules that are typically short (e.g., videos, quizzes, or infographics), catering to shorter attention spans. Mobile apps equipped with push notifications and reminders are ideal for this approach, enabling learners to digest information in manageable chunks and apply knowledge more effectively.

Integrations with LMS

The increasing use of educational mobile apps is also closely linked to their smooth integration with Learning Management Systems (LMS) used by schools and organizations.

LMSs simplify tasks such as grading assignments, tracking student progress, and enrolling in courses. Integrating with apps maximizes these benefits, making the many features of LMSs easily accessible at your fingertips.

Main Benefits of E-learning Mobile Apps

So, why does e-learning deserve our attention? Of course, it’s innovative and future-proof, but can it substitute traditional education methods? Those who tried e-learning can genuinely feel the drastic difference and agree that EdTech made their life much easier. Here are some reasons to dive deeper into online education.

Reduced training cost

The first and most obvious benefit is that e-learning mobile apps help reduce training expenses. Traditional training methods can be costly, with expenses for materials, speakers, venue rentals, travel, and accommodation.

E-learning apps easily eliminate these costs by offering digital materials that employees or students can access anytime, anywhere. This not only reduces overall expenses but also frees up resources for other critical business needs.

Improved learning ROI

With e-learning mobile apps companies maximize the value of their investments, turning theoretical knowledge into important skills. Many of the custom-built apps offer numerous features, from interactive simulations and real-time feedback to on-the-go access, which allow learners to practice and integrate new skills into their daily routines. 

Moreover, learning apps provide continuous updates and built-in analytics to track progress, helping organizations see tangible benefits, such as improved job performance and increased productivity, from their training investments.

Increased teachers’ and students’ engagement

Mobile apps notably increase engagement in educational programs with interactive elements like quizzes, videos, games, and discussion forums, making it less likely for students to drop courses halfway. 

For teachers and schools, the benefits extend beyond student engagement. Educators can track progress in real time and provide instant feedback, creating a more dynamic and supportive learning environment for better learning outcomes.

Better knowledge retention

App features such as push notifications, microlearning modules, and spaced repetition help reinforce learning and ensure that information is retained over the long term.

Additionally, the ability to access learning materials on-demand allows students to review content as needed, further solidifying their understanding and retention of the subject matter.

Streamlined content management 

Managing and updating training materials is much simpler with mobile apps compared to traditional education programs. Educators can create, update, and upload content in just a second, so learners always have access to the latest information. 

With such a benefit, organizations quickly adapt to new developments and changes within their industry, keeping their workforce knowledgeable and competitive. Moreover, digital content distribution reduces the environmental impact of printing and shipping, adding an extra boost to your sustainability initiatives.

E-Learning App Development Explained: Process, Costs, and Best Advice

Should You Invest in E-Learning Mobile App Development?

Investing in e-learning application development is a great way to improve various processes within your company or organization. As the world evolves and the digital market expands, new skills become more and more important for delivering quality work. Statistics say that education is the second most popular category on the App Store and Google Play. 

But still, deciding to create your own e-learning app is a big step that needs careful thought. To help you decide if it’s the right move, we’ve prepared a list of questions to consider.

1. Who are you trying to train?

If your audience includes younger people or those comfortable with mobile technology, creating an e-learning app might be a good idea. Mobile devices are a big part of their daily lives, making an app a great way to engage your students/employees in learning.

2. Is your content well-suited for a mobile format?

Can you effectively deliver your training material through an app? Apps offer many features for sharing engaging and interactive courses, like videos, quizzes, and games, which are easy to use on smaller screens. However, there can still be some limitations, such as offline access or distractions due to small screens. 

3. What training gaps exist within your organization?

Find specific training gaps that a mobile app could address. Do you struggle with inconsistent training, lack of accessibility, or the need for on-demand learning? If yes, then a mobile app might be your solution. 

4. Do you have the internal resources or budget for e-learning app development?

Do you have the necessary expertise or budget to develop and maintain a mobile app? Will you need to hire developers, invest in software, or partner with external vendors? Decide on these before starting the project.

5. Do you have a learning management system (LMS) in place?

Can your current LMS integrate with a mobile app? An LMS can improve the app’s functionality by managing user data, tracking progress, and delivering content efficiently. Make sure your LMS is compatible with the app you plan to create.

 

What E-Learning App Can You Develop?

Depending on the intended audience, purpose, and characteristics, online learning app development can provide you with different types and varieties of products, including academic applications for schools and universities and corporate and commercial apps. Here are some common types of e-learning apps:

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs)

MOOC apps offer free or low-cost courses on various subjects. They typically include video lectures, quizzes, discussion forums, and interactive learning materials. MOOS makes higher education a public good by allowing anyone to enroll in the courses. They enable open and global interaction with other students and the capacity to experiment widely with teaching techniques.

Language Learning Apps

All demographics can benefit from language learning, a trendy area for commercial e-learning mobile apps. These apps focus on teaching foreign languages through interactive lessons, vocabulary exercises, pronunciation practice, and language immersion techniques. Examples include Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone.

Schooling Apps

These are apps that support formal education. The programs, such as Curriculum, Educreations, and Classflow, provide teachers with tools to organize the teaching and learning process. Additionally, there are apps for grading and performance assessment of students, such as Edmodo, ZipGrade, QuickGrader, and iGrade. They are adapted to the teacher’s demands in this area and focus on a particular characteristic, namely grading.

Tutoring Apps

The goal of online tutoring platforms is to connect students with private instructors and support their ongoing connection by handling things like scheduling classes, collecting payments, monitoring attendance, assigning homework, etc. Some platforms demand credentials from the tutor, such as a certificate or a teaching license. A few examples are Preply, Tutor House, Tutorful, Skooli, and Lessonface.

Skill-Based Learning and Professional Development Apps

Skill-based learning apps target skills like coding, design, photography, or music. They often provide hands-on exercises, project-based learning, and feedback to help users master the skill. E-learning development best practices provide continuing education and skill enhancement for professionals in various industries. They offer courses, webinars, workshops, and resources to help individuals advance their careers.

E-Learning Apps for Pre-K

This is an entirely different market for mobile apps that primarily focuses on producing an enjoyable and visually appealing game-like experience while teaching the child the fundamentals of math, reading, spelling, colors, and other topics. Lingokids, Kid-E-Cats, Bebi Family Games, and kid-friendly puzzle games are a few examples.

Microlearning Apps

Microlearning apps are designed for quick, bite-sized learning sessions that fit into a busy schedule. They break down complex topics into short, focused lessons, often taking just a few minutes to complete. These apps use interactive elements like flashcards, quizzes, and videos to keep users interested and reinforce learning. Some examples are Quizlet, Blinkist, and EdApp. Microlearning is great for learning new skills or brushing up on knowledge in small, manageable chunks.

Educational Games

Educational games combine fun and learning to create an engaging educational experience for children and adults alike. These apps use game mechanics to teach subjects such as math, science, history, and language arts. Features often include levels, rewards, and challenges to motivate users to progress through the content. Educational games help improve understanding and retention by making learning interactive and enjoyable. Popular examples include Kahoot!, Prodigy, and DragonBox.

Corporate Training Apps

Corporate training apps, as the name suggests, help companies train their employees, offering courses and training materials specific to different job roles or skills. They usually have features like progress tracking, assessments, certifications, and interactive content like videos and simulations. Corporate training apps ensure consistent training across the workforce and can be customized for each company’s needs. Examples include Coursera for Business, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy for Business.

 

Essential Features of an E-Learning Mobile App

The process of e-learning platform development requires defining a specific set of features. Of course, each online education program is unique and uses different learning methods, but the key features of e-learning are the same.

Registration and login

To start using the app, you need to sign up if you are a new user or login if you already have an account. This is the first step of basically any application.

Push notifications

This feature helps the student to be in touch with all the updates, including new learning material, new tasks, and upcoming events. Also, push notifications send alerts, so it’s easier for students to keep up with the schedule.

Support of multiple languages

The more languages are available in the app, the more students worldwide can use it. When the app is used worldwide, it gets a good promotion and more opportunities for further development.

Assessments and quizzes

Such a form of learning is fun and innovative, enabling students to check their knowledge. It’s a great way to practice and memorize new information.

Tips and How-To screens  

To keep the user engaged and help them get acquainted with the app, it’s helpful to have tips that make the program’s usage more manageable and fun. It’s a good practice, especially for those who are only starting to get into EdTech.

Accessibility Features

Creating an accessible mobile app means everyone can use it comfortably, regardless of disabilities. The accessibility standard is based on the globally recognized Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, used for desktop websites too.

Important accessibility features include a color contrast ratio for readability, support for both on-screen and hardware keyboards, clear labels for UI elements, touch targets of at least 44 dp x 44 dp, simple gestures, and audio descriptions for video content.

 

Advanced Features to Implement Into Your E-Learning App

When building an e-learning app or any other mobile application, you can use basic native tools for the core features. Yet, for more advanced options, you’ll have to bring in professional expertise. Here are some of the advanced functionalities your app can have:

Offline accessibility

The offline feature is quite convenient and allows students to access learning materials even when they don’t have an internet connection. It’s great for those who may not always have reliable Internet access, making sure they can keep learning no matter where they are.

Interactive learning

We can all agree that interactive learning makes the educational experience more engaging and hands-on, especially for teenagers and children. Interactive elements in your app can include things like simulations, interactive videos, and real-time discussions, helping students to better understand and retain the material.

Microlearning modules

Microlearning modules function as short, focused learning sessions that concentrate on one specific topic or skill. They are designed to break down complex information into bite-sized pieces. Learners can complete these modules quickly, which encourages frequent engagement and minimizes cognitive overload.

Personalized learning paths

This feature customizes the learning journey for each student based on their individual needs, interests, and progress. Personalized learning paths, usually powered by AI algorithms, help students to get the most relevant and effective learning experience possible.

Progress tracking

Progress tracking visually displays students’ progress and what they still need to complete. This helps students track how far they’ve come and stay motivated to reach their learning goals. Teachers can also use this feature to monitor class progress and provide support where needed. 

Assessment tools

Assessment tools vary and can include quizzes, tests, and other methods to gauge a student’s grasp of the material. These tools help instructors pinpoint areas needing improvement and track overall progress, all while reducing stress on students through gamified assessment formats.

E-Learning App Development Process Step-by-Step

There are various phases involved in creating educational apps. Here is a step-by-step process to help you start.

Define your goal

Stating your purpose is half the deal while creating an e-learning app. It includes choosing your target audience, the idea behind your app, and what statement you want to make with the help of your app.

To make a helpful and exciting app, you should know your target audience’s needs, preferences, and educational objectives. Choose the knowledge or skills you want users to gain using your app. Clear goals will direct the e-learning development life cycle and assist you in producing valuable content.

Conduct Market Research

Once you have a specific idea, the next step is to do market research to determine whether there are any existing, comparable e-learning apps and what features they offer. You can find market gaps and determine how to differentiate your app from competitors.

Examine the current educational app industry to find prospective competitors and business prospects. Look for areas where your app can add value or fill in gaps. Consider user evaluations and feedback to identify an app’s strengths and weaknesses.

Assemble Your App’s Structure and Features

Make a thorough app plan covering the general architecture, user experience, and functionalities. Selecting your software format is essential: it can be more visual or based on tests and exercises. What design do you prefer for your app? Do you want it to be more entertaining or strictly educational?

Don’t forget that proper e-learning application functionality attracts numerous users and engages them to download your app. Choose the essential features you wish to have, such as lessons, tests, progress monitoring, or interactive components. Sketch the user flow and screen designs to see how the app looks and functions.

Design the User Interface (UI)

Work on your app’s visual appearance. Design an interface that is user-friendly and pleasing to the eye of your intended audience. To create a seamless and exciting user experience, pay attention to elements like color schemes, typography, and layout.

Remember that UI design should promote effective learning and engagement and be aesthetically pleasing. To provide users of your instructional app the best possible experience, collect user input frequently and make your on-demand e-learning app development team design changes.

Develop Your App

Coding and implementing your app’s features and functionalities are part of this process. Use platforms or frameworks that streamline the process of developing apps. You can create the app yourself if you are proficient in programming

Alternatively, you can partner with a development team and outsource the work to experts. In this step, it is vital to form your development team. Your members should be devoted and skilled in software development and e-learning. Of course, measuring the cost of e-learning development in your particular case is vital.

Test and Iterate

Perform thorough testing to find and address any bugs or usability problems. To enhance and improve your software, get input from beta testers or potential consumers. Until you are pleased with the program’s performance, iteratively incorporate adjustments depending on user input

Integrate analytics tools into your app to gather user involvement, activity, and development information. You can use this information to better understand how users engage with your app and plan updates or enhancements for the future.

Launch and Update

Create a launch strategy for your app, including marketing and promotion tactics, app store submission, and more. Optimize your app store listing with essential keywords and enticing descriptions. Use social media, online forums, and other marketing avenues to spread the word and draw people to your app.

Encourage people to review and share feedback on your app. Analyze the input frequency to spot development opportunities, then implement updates and new features as necessary. Develop your app continuously to satisfy the changing needs of your target market.

Remember that creating an educational app is an iterative process that calls for constant upkeep and upgrades to maintain its efficacy and relevancy over time. Ensure you keep your app current, polished, and filled with new content.

 

E-Learning App Development Cost

Costs can vary widely depending on location. For example, developing an app in the US or Canada tends to be more expensive than in Eastern European countries, where you can find high-quality solutions at more affordable prices. 

As a rough estimate, developing a basic e-learning app can cost between $20,000 to $50,000, while more complex apps with advanced features may cost $100,000 or more, depending on specific requirements and functionalities. 

To ease your task, Inoxoft offers to use our app cost calculator, which is the best choice if you want to calculate your price and decide if it’s good for you.

 

Consider Inoxoft Your Trusted E-learning App Development Partner

Looking for a reliable partner in educational software development? At Inoxoft, we bring 10 years of experience in crafting web and mobile solutions for educational initiatives globally.

We develop everything from intuitive e-learning applications to complex learning management systems and multifunctional school management software, trusted by more than 300 clients. 

Our priority is your satisfaction. We ensure this by delivering secure, innovative, and fully-supported products, integrating your feedback at every stage of the project. Whether you need an app to improve learning outcomes within your organization or streamline school management, we are here to listen to your needs.

Discover why Inoxoft is your top choice for educational software development and explore our case studies.

Case Study: Creating language learning and social media solution

Our client, the Norwegian founder of the innovative language-learning board game New Amigos, decided to expand the game’s reach and capabilities, transforming it into a software application. After carefully considering various options, the company partnered with us to bring its ambitious vision to life. The founder aimed to let users connect with native speakers from different countries for language learning partnerships.

Using advanced technologies such as ReactJS and .NET Core, the Inoxoft team successfully digitized the board game within just six months.  Our seasoned professionals developed a responsive web application that facilitates real-life language learning through simultaneous video streams, interactive elements, animations, progress tracking, and other features designed to improve learning effectiveness.

With Inoxoft’s support, the client achieved its goals, significantly boosting sales and expanding the game’s global reach, connecting users worldwide for an engaging and fun learning experience.

 

Final Thoughts

E-learning offers a perfect balance of user comfort and high-quality education, driving the industry toward a projected value of US$1 trillion by 2032. Mobile apps are opening new opportunities in the sector, making them increasingly attractive to investors and businesses globally. 

With features like personalized learning paths and online video streaming, e-learning apps can meet the needs of even the most demanding learners and deliver impressive results in both revenue and educational outcomes.

At Inoxoft, we turn your ideas into reality. With our broad expertise and innovative technology for full-cycle development, we’re eager to become your partner on this journey.

Don’t wait—begin your project with us now! Contact our experts for a project estimate and a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I identify the right niche for my e-learning app?

Start by thinking about what you know well or are passionate about—this will help you create more valuable content. 

 

Next, do some research: look at what’s popular in e-learning and what gaps exist. Check forums, social media, and online courses to see where people have unmet needs or interests. 

 

Also, think about who you want to help: Are they students, professionals, hobbyists? Identifying a specific group will make your app more focused and easier to market.

What are some ways to save money on e-learning app development?

To save money on developing your e-learning app, you can start by creating a basic version with only the essential features. This approach, known as a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), allows you to test your concept without spending too much upfront.

 

Additionally, consider building your app on existing platforms or learning management systems to cut down on infrastructure costs.

How do I market my e-learning app?

First, understand who your audience is and tailor your efforts to reach them. Social media can be a powerful tool—share content that’s related to your app, engage with users through posts and videos, and join relevant conversations. 

 

Second, partnering with influencers in the education field can also help you reach a wider audience, as well as writing blog posts or creating other content that can drive traffic to your app through search engines. 

 

Lastly, participating in online communities related to your app’s niche can help you spread the word naturally and build interest.

How can I keep my e-learning app content fresh and engaging?

Keeping your content fresh is all about regular updates and interaction. Here are some ways to do it:

  1. Continuously add new courses, lessons, or features to keep users interested.
  2. Use quizzes, polls, and interactive activities to make learning more engaging.
  3. Regularly ask users for feedback and use it to improve and update your content.
  4. Invite experts to create or host new content periodically.
  5. Align your content with current events, trends, or seasons to keep it relevant.

What are some best practices for managing an e-learning app?

To manage an e-learning app effectively you have to stay on top of several aspects:

  1. Keep an eye on key metrics like user engagement, course completion rates, and technical issues.
  2. Provide easy access to support for any issues or questions users might have. A good FAQ section and quick response times can help.
  3. Update your app regularly to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features.
  4. Build a community around your app where users can share experiences, ask questions, and give feedback.