Among the various types of educational technology resources available to teachers are educational software, application software, and integrated learning systems (discussed separately).
Educational Software
The term “educational software” refers to any computer program that teaches subject-related content to students. There are five types of educational software, including tutorials, drill-and-practice
software, simulations, instructional games, and problem-solving software.
Tutorials
A tutorial is a program designed to teach content and
provide students with practice exercises and feedback. Tutorials can be used to
teach brand new concepts, review previously taught concepts, and allow students
to work at their own pace or on independent projects. See an example of
an online Khan Academy math tutorial.
Drill-and-practice software
Drill-and-practice software are computer programs that provide students with
practice activities and instantaneous feedback about their performance. They
are typically used to rehearse skills, review concepts, and facilitate content
mastery. View an online example of an anatomy
drill-and-practice.
Simulations
A simulation is a computer program that teaches content or how-to knowledge by modeling real-life processes and situations and allowing students
to practice skills in a simulated environment on the computer (e.g., dissecting a frog). Simulations are used to introduce new content to
students, supplement instruction, foster exploration and problem-solving, and
provide a safe learning environment for experimentation. View an example of an
online history simulation.
Instructional games
An
instructional game is a computer program that teaches content or skills by engaging students in a game. Instructional games can also be used to involve students in group activities and
reward them for good work or behavior. Examples of online instructional
games for K-8 students are available at funbrain.com.
Problem-solving software
Problem-solving software is a computer program that teaches problem-solving skills related to a specific subject area (e.g., math) or
general problem-solving skills (e.g., identifying the steps for solving problems). An example of a problem-solving software is “Where is Carmen San
Diego in the World?”. Problem-solving software is typically used by teachers to
create opportunities for students to practice and apply concepts or general
problem-solving skills and to foster critical thinking. View an example of
a problem-solving website for math.
Application Software
Application
software is a computer program that tells the computer how to produce
information. It is often referred to as productivity software because it allows
users to complete tasks such as the creation of documents, publications,
spreadsheets, and databases. Examples of application software include Microsoft
Word (word-processing software), Microsoft PowerPoint (presentation software),
Microsoft Publisher (desktop-publishing software) and Microsoft Excel
(spreadsheet software). Application software are commonly used by teachers and
students to word-process documents and create presentations and publications
such as slide shows and newsletters.
EVALUATING EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES
Prior to incorporating technology resources into the teaching and learning process, teachers should review and evaluate the tools that they are considering to incorporate in the classroom in order to ensure successful teaching and meaningful learning experiences for students.
The purpose of evaluating technology resources (e.g., educational software, application software, and integrated learning systems) is to make sure that they are suitable for the intended grade level and developmental needs of students and that they complement/supplement the instructional methods used by the teacher.
The following sequence of steps can assist teachers in the selection of quality technology resources:
- Identify the skills and topics to be addressed
- Identify relevant technology resources
- Review them
- Try them out in the classroom
- Obtain student feedback
- Reflect on their effectiveness
- Select the resource(s)
When reviewing technology resources, it is recommended that teachers answer the following essential questions:
- Is the technology resource user-friendly and easy to navigate?
- Does it work well?
- Does it use sound instructional design and pedagogy?
- Does it provide accurate, up-to-date, and appropriate content to students?
- Is it likely to engage students?
REFERENCES
Maloy, R., Verock-O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Park Woolf, B. (2017). Transforming learning with new technologies (3rd ed.). Boston: Pearson.
Information from this post may be used provided credit is given to Dominique Charlotteaux
