Week 3

Many believe that computer programs can teach since they are able to do clerical tasks so quickly and efficiently. I do not believe that computer software should ever take the role of the teacher, as some do. Computer software should be used as a teaching tool to add in a teacher's toolbox to reach students of our technology-savy society. Below I have listed and described the five types of computer software, along with an example of each.
1. Drill and practice software gives the practice and rehearsal time and repitions that students need in order to place things in their long term memories. This software is beneficial to teachers because they receive immediate feedback about specific objectives.
         Example: Vocabulary practice software http://www.brainpopesl.com/
2. Tutorial software is a replacement for a teacher. The software literally has instruction on a topic without any other materials needed.
         Example: instruction software for teaching history subtopics such as the Constitution of the U.S. http://congressforkids.net/Constitution_writingconstitution.htm
3. Simulation software uses computerized models to teach how the system works. Simulations can be either physical (users can manipulate things) or iterative (speed up or slow down the process for learners).
         Example: stock market simulations http://nationalsms.com/
4. Instructional games attempts to make learning more fun and effective by merging games, fun and learning.
         Example: Jeopardy review games or vocabulary review games http://www.superteachertools.com/jeopardy/
5. Problem solving software is created to build a learner's problem solving skill, something that the country is placing a huge emphasis on.
         Example: Memory games http://www.criticalthinking.com/index.jsp