Week 3- Instructional Software

After reading chapter 3 this week I figured out that I really need to take some time this summer to just explore and try out all of the different types of instructional software that exist. Some of the types mentioned in our text I have used before and am familiar with, but some of them I haven't heard of and they look like they would be a good fit for my classroom.

The five types of instructional software included in our text  are:

1. Drill and practice software which provide exercises that allow students to answer questions or problems and receive feedback on correctness. One drill and practice application that I have used in my classroom is :  http://quizlet.com   This is a great site that lets students practice their vocabulary.

2. Tutorial software provides students with all of the information that they need to learn a topic. This includes summaries, explanations, practice and assessment in some form. One such tutorial that I would really like to explore can be found at : http://www.physicsclassroom.com/Class/newtlaws

3. Simulation software provides computerized models of systems to show how these systems work or demonstrate concepts. I use lab simulations in my  class because sometimes I do not have the resources or funding to do a really elaborate lab with my students, but I can find awesome lab simulations that my students can complete. One example can be found at http://www.edheads.org/activities/brain_stimulation/, which allows students to perform a virtual brain surgery. After studying the nervous system in class my students completed this simulation and found it to be fun and interesting.

4. Instructional games are programs that add games or competition in order to help the students learn a concept. One game that I have used often in class and the kids love is "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire" which can be found at the following link: http://www.superteachertools.com/millionaire/

5. Problem-solving software is designed to help improve students' problem solving abilities and skills. One example of problem-solving software that I will be exploring this summer is the Thinkport-STEM collaborative which can be found at: http://www.thinkport.org/Classroom/stem.tp

Our book offers lots of examples of different options for each of the five types of instructional software and some of them look like they would be great to use. I've added another item to my "to do list" for the summer!