Agenda Instructional software Software Evaluation Project Definition Categorization Examples Software Evaluation Project Looking ahead Liyan Song, IT@Towson

Instructional Software: Definition “Applications software that is designed specifically to deliver or assist with student instruction on a topic.” “Programs developed for the sole purpose of delivering instruction or supporting learning activities.” Not software tools (Roblyer, 2006, p.76) Liyan Song, IT@Towson

True or False? Microsoft word Microsoft Excel Microsoft PowerPoint FrontPage Videos Tapes BlackBoard PowerPoint games on science Liyan Song, IT@Towson

Categorization: Drill and Practice Characteristics Immediate feedback Motivation Saving teacher time Applications Supplement homework/classroom activities In preparation for tests Guidelines Set time limit Assign individually Example: http://www.321know.com/g3_27_x4.htm Liyan Song, IT@Towson

Categorization: Tutorials Characteristics Extensive interactivity Thorough user control Appropriate and flexible sequence Applications Self-paced reviews of instruction Alternative learning strategies Instruction when teachers are unavailable Guidelines Assign individually Save class time Wider access to instructional materials Example http://www.congressforkids.net/ Liyan Song, IT@Towson

Categorization: Simulation Characteristics Real or imagined system Make impossible possible (time, money, resources, repetition, controllability) Thorough learner control Applications In place of or as supplements as lab experiments, role playing, and field trips Introducing a new topic Fostering exploration, process learning, and teamwork spirit Guidelines Provide a demo Assign group work Example http://www.froguts.com/flash_content/index.html Liyan Song, IT@Towson

Categorization: Instructional Game Characteristics Fun and entertaining Game rules Elements of competition Guidelines Appealing formats and activities Instructional value Minimum violence Example http://pbskids.org/arthur/games/index.html Liyan Song, IT@Towson

Categorization: Problem Solving What is problem solving? “Metacognition, observing, recalling information, sequencing, analyzing, finding and organizing information, inferring, predicting outcomes, making analogies, and formulating ideas” (p.96) Guidelines Allow sufficient time Vary amount of direction and assistance Promote reflective learning environment Emphasize on transfer Assign group work Example http://peabody.vanderbilt.edu/projects/funded/jasper/preview/AdvJW.html Liyan Song, IT@Towson

Software Evaluation Project PowerPoint presentation on a self-selected instructional software Components: Target audience Instructional objectives Instructional use Strengths and weaknesses Demo Design Animation Logical flow Language Share your topic in Blackboard discussion area under “Software Evaluation Project” forum Liyan Song, IT@Towson

Looking Ahead Sign-up for Software Evaluation Project presentation time Share your Software Evaluation Project topics in Blackboard Liyan Song, IT@Towson