IXL

I have had the pleasure of piloting IXL in all my classes.  I really enjoy it because the topics offered in each class match up quite well with what I teach.  It gives me great reports so I can see how well each individual student is doing on certain topics.  It tells me if the student is performing below level, at level or even if they fully understand the material.  In fact, IXL provides 35 different reports.  I can go so far as to see which problems they've missed.  Furthermore, if a student misses a problem IXL shows them how to do it. 
There are two other things I like.  Since my pre-algebra class has problems working with fractions, I can move them down to the 5th level to learn to work with fractions.  I started them on the adding and subtracting fractions with unlike denominators using manipulatives so they can see precisely how the lowest common denominator works.  In addition, I do have one pre-algebra student who is at a level between the pre-algebra and the algebra class and I've got her doing some 8th grade work. 
The second thing I like is that students earn a reward after 5 min of working with IXL  They see pieces being turned over on a large board and it helps them see how they are doing. 
Overall, I am really liking the data I get from IXL because it is helping me create better instruction that meets the students needs.

Math 42 app and IXL

My Algebra II class is currently learning to factor and graph quadratics.  With the new common core standards and the increase of technology use in everyday life, I have to decide what part of the material should be taught.  In regard to quadratics, I have settled on factoring the standard form of a quadratic, imaginary numbers, finding the vertex equation and the quadratic formula because that is really all they need to know to work with quadratics.  I do not even teach completing the square or vertex forms because most of the time, I can have students just graph the equation or use the quadratic formula to find roots.
I had my two T.A's try the training part of the Math 42 app and they struggled with it because they did not know the vertex form or even how to complete the square.  This lead me to the though "Are apps keeping pace with what do students really need to know to succeed in today's society.  They can download apps to their phones for use.  My mother remembers when the computer at work took a whole floor and it was the latest.  I had to learn all this because we did not have access to calculators or apps on digital devices.  I had to know so much so I could graph equations. 
I find that IXL has the testing part that allows me choices so I can decide if I only want my Algebra II class to factor or work complete the square.  I can even have my Algebra I class take a quiz focused on the slope-intercept form or point-slope form
I think the Math 42 app will be better as an app to help reinforce learning.