HQIM Review: IXL

Overview

IXL is a comprehensive online learning platform offering standards-aligned content for K-12 learners in subjects like math, language arts, science, social studies, and Spanish. IXL personalizes learning through adaptive practice that adjusts to each learner’s current level and provides targeted instruction.

Its Real-Time Diagnostic tool assesses learner progress and identifies specific areas for improvement. Additionally, the platform includes in-depth explanations and a rewards system to motivate learners, making it well-suited for both homeschool and after-school programs.

Our Assessment

  • The cost of IXL is relatively high compared to other platforms, but it can be justifiable given the benefits like personalized learning and detailed diagnostics. At roughly $12 per learner for a year-long license for a single subject, the expense may be restrictive for smaller homeschool groups or after-school programs, making it a better fit for those with more substantial budgets.

  • While IXL offers many useful features, its usability falls short in certain areas. The setup for Real-Time Diagnostics is not intuitive, and the platform lacks a progress bar during diagnostic assessments, which can frustrate learners. These aspects often require adult assistance, particularly in non-traditional settings, and although the interface is functional, it has room for improvement to streamline the user experience.

  • IXL provides effective teaching methods, with lessons aligned to standards and designed for step-by-step skill development. The Real-Time Diagnostic tool accurately assesses learner performance, and the platform’s adaptive lessons support a clear progression of skills. IXL’s content is accessible to diverse learners and aligns well with best practices, though the usability issues can hinder full engagement.

  • IXL is generally engaging, especially with its personalized learning paths and reward system that incentivizes progress. However, engagement may dip during the lengthy diagnostic assessments, as the lack of a progress indicator can lead to frustration. Despite this, the platform’s interactive content and achievement system help sustain curiosity and interest, particularly in younger learners.

Implementation Tips for Homeschools and Community-Based Organizations

  • Break up the Lengthy Diagnostics: The diagnostic assessment can be lengthy, averaging 45 minutes or more for learners below grade level, making it challenging in non-traditional settings depending on the level of supervision and education support adults are able to give. No progress indicator during diagnostics may lead to learner disengagement as they don't know how much longer the assessment will take. Be sure to have adult supervision to help support learners that need a little bit of encouragement and break up the diagnostic into 1-3 smaller segments of time depending on the age of the learner. 

  • Leverage Personalized Learning Paths: Assign adaptive lessons to meet each learner’s needs and ensure steady progress.

  • Monitor Progress Closely: Invest time in setting up the diagnostic snapshot and familiarizing administrators and teachers with the backend of the platform so they can monitor progress. Regularly review the detailed analytics to track learner performance and adjust instruction as needed. 

  • Provide Assistance During Setup: Help learners navigate the platform, especially during diagnostics, and offer guidance in interpreting their results.

  • Combine with Offline Activities: Enhance learning by pairing IXL lessons with hands-on activities for a well-rounded approach.

  • Use Barcode Login Cards: Barcode login cards provided by IXL are essential for quickly getting younger learners logged in, especially those with limited keyboard skills.

  • Encourage Learner Use of Audio Instructions: We noticed learners need encouragement to take advantage of audio instruction. This support is essential for early readers and provides verbal guidance for lessons and diagnostic questions.

  • Monitor Comprehensive Assessment Analytics: The comprehensive assessment tracks learner progress with detailed reports on reading strategies, vocabulary, writing, and grammar, and shows overall reading scores.Analytics reveal the percentage of learners at, below, or far below grade level, helping educators target interventions effectively.