The internet and World Wide Web have had a huge impact not only on society, but on education as well. The web offers many resources for teaching and learning. Software programs are also available for educators. These programs are created to perform specific functions or to accomplish specific tasks. These programs are sets of instructions that control the operations of a computer. Without software, computers would not function. Programming language is used by publishers and manufacturers to design software. There are two types of software: application and support systems. Spreadsheets, databases, web browsers, and word processing programs are examples of application software. Support software provides the computer with general commands. Examples of operating systems are Windows XP, or Vista. Utility programs are those that allow for defragmenting and formatting discs or fixing printer problems. Software that is available for download from the internet is called Shareware. Most shareware is available free for a limited time, and then when the time is passed, the users must pay a fee or no longer use the program. Freeware is software found on the internet that can be downloaded free of charge. Vendors give freeware in order to persuade users to “upgrade” for a price. Educational software can be used in the classroom for educational purposes. Types of educational software include drill and practice, problem solving, creative/critical thinking, tutorials, simulations, image editing and draw/paint.
Immediate feedback is given with drill practice, but new concepts are not taught. Problem solving software challenges students to solve problems based on a prior knowledge. Hints are given and guesses on how to solve problems. Creative/critical thinking software encourages students to explore communications between related ideas. Tutorial programs provide training and practice. Simulation software allows students to experience situations that they may not be able to otherwise experience, due to cost or danger. Image software is used to create, edit, or enhance digital images. Draw/paint software allows users to modify graphics from other sources to create new images. Software should be chosen based on relevance, meeting instructional goals, ease of use, and hardware requirements.
.
This past week was our first week of school. A Power Point was used to welcome students to the middle school, and to inform them of school and classroom expectations. The Power Point also included consequences to behavior violations. The presentation was very well received by the students. The major challenge I faced in showing the power point was that computers were down the first couple of days, and when they decided to work again, internet service in my room was down. I had emailed the PPT to my school email to open up and use in the classroom. I had to make arrangements and do something else on the day I planned using this because I had forgotten to bring the flash drive that contained the power point. Always be prepared, because as great as technology is, you never know when there might be a glitch!