Effective Literacy Website Review #2: IXL Learning

Gerilyn Ilao

ED 638 Fall Intersession 2018

Dr. M. Rivera

IRA Newsletter Project: Effective Literacy Website #2


IXL Learning is an educational technology based company that is passionate about creating and supporting the best educational technology. It was first released in 1998 as Quia Web, the first website that allowed teachers and learners to create and share customized study materials. The initial version featured three formats: a matching game, a concentration game, and flash cards. Over the years, it has focused on developing educational technologies that people can rely on in the progression of children’s education. Fast forward to 2007, when Quia Web then turned into IXL, that also included a groundbreaking platform and curriculum for K-12 math education. It then expanded to English and Language Arts in 2013 and then introduced Science and Social Studies in 2015. In 2017, it launched Spanish, offering an engaging way for world language learners to develop fluency in vocabulary, grammar, and other foundational skills. As of 2018, IXL Learning acquired another brilliant educational webpage, ABCYa, which is full of educational computer games and apps for children.

I personally have seen IXL used by students before and I found it to be in a way beneficial. Students are able to log in to their accounts and can choose which skills to work on based on their grade level. When they answer the question correctly, they move onto the next question. When they choose the incorrect answer, they get a limited chance to answer correctly. It will then explain why the answer is incorrect and why the correct answer makes sense. I like how it will show the students the skills that they should master by the end of the year. I also like how IXL is not focused on just one subject matter. Not only does it focus on Reading and Language Arts, it also focuses on the core subjects of Math, Social Studies, and Science. It is also easy to access, so long as there is internet connection on any mobile or laptop device.

I have heard of others not enjoying the program due to various reasons. One reason being the point system. With every question, if answered correctly, students will gain points. However, if answered incorrectly, it will deduct points and bring down their percentage by a lot. Students and parents have also expressed their concerns that it is torturous, as their teachers will have them do it as “filler work,” or work to do when the tasks for the day is completed. They have also expressed that it is long and boring.



Overall, depending on how a person views IXL, it is in some way helpful to the students. Teachers and parents could use this website as reinforcement at home of what is being learned in the classroom, if not actual classwork to do during class. I admit that after reading the negative reviews IXL Learning received, there is always room for improvement. As long as those concerns are being addressed, I feel that it can be beneficial to our students in their educational development.