Integrating Problem-Solving and Educational Software Chapter 11

Choosing the Right Software Benefits of Problem-Solving Software- well designed educational games are structured to require application of content knowledge and skills in order to ‘win’ the game. Benefits of Educational Software- if used regularly, student achievement in basic skills does improve (includes drill and practice, tutorials, and integrated learning systems). Drill and practice software benefits include an opportunity for students to engage in interactive basic skills practice that provides immediate individual performance feedback. Tutorial software can increase student learning in math and science. Integrated learning systems provide instructional content, mastery-type practice, feedback, and assessments that are aligned to state standards.

Software Evaluation Criteria Teacher-Conducted Software Evaluation Teacher Software Evaluation- you can use your own experience and expertise to evaluate problem-solving or educational software (sample evaluation form p. 289). Software Evaluation with Student Performance and Attitudes- determines whether or not students actually learn from the software and what they like and do not like about using it (sample evaluation form p. 290).

Planning an NTeQ Lesson for Problem-Solving and Educational Software While all 10 components are addressed, only 6 are different. Computer Functions- to determine if use of problem-solving of educational software will enhance student ability to achieve objectives, identify the basic functions of the problem-solving or educational software to see whether they align with the objectives. Providing Content- includes such formats as descriptions, definitions, examples and nonexamples, diagrams, photographs, images, animations, maps or any type of information to be learned by the students. Providing Practice and Feedback- software can be programmed to provide “individualized” feedback based on student input into the program. Providing Process Tools- can include prompts or they can be stand-alone tools.

Planning an NTeQ Lesson for Problem-Solving and Educational Software Research and Analysis- since the focus is on problem-solving and educational software, then you simply identify the specific sections or portions of the software that align with the objectives. If the purpose is to provide process tools, then the data manipulation will involve students working with the tools to learn the designated concepts or process. Results Presentation- this part depends on what the students are doing. If they are using the software to learn and explore new content then they do not create a final product. Also, some software may or may not the program allows the students to print out

Planning an NTeQ Lesson for Problem-Solving and Educational Software Before Computer- this will vary based on the functions that are being emphasized. Could be anything from having students review rules of software to practicing prerequisite skills. During Computer- if using application tools, plan for students to set up the format, enter data, and complete a variety of manipulations. After Computer- if it just practice software, then students will probably not have products to work with when they finish. However, if they are using educational software they will typically have final products they can work with (example: software to create an outline).