Week 3

This week as I read chapters 3,4, and 5, I learned more about the different types of instructional software. I had no idea there was so many different types of software I will be able to use in my classroom. I learned more about 6 different kinds of software. Here is a list of each one, what it means, and how I would incorporate it into my classroom. If you click on the type of software it will link you to a website that tells more about it!

1. Drill and Practice : Drill and practice is designed to help users remember isolated facts and recall them quickly. I would incorporate drill and practice into my classroom by installing software that will allow students to reinforce specific skills, such as reading and math. Used in small doses, this software can replace lessons and reinforce what the students have learned. This software would be great to incorporate into centers as a game because the students would be able to apply some problem solving strategies as well as practice basic skills. The website I chose for drill and practice was Mia's Reading Adventure: The Bugaboo Bugs. This software can be used with kids ages 5 to 9. The Bugaboo Bugs is for kids that are working on their reading and language skills.

2. Tutorial : Tutorial is a type of instruction software that offers a complete sequence of instruction on a given topic, including explanation, examples, embedded practice, and feedback. My school already uses the tutorial software Starfall that I will continue to use in my classroom. Starfall is great because helps children to read with phonics. It teaches kids that reading can be fun!

3. Simulation : Simulation software models a real or imaginary system in order to teach the principles on which the system is based. Facebook now has several types of simulation software. For example, there is FarmVille and CityVille where people can create their own town by making stores, restaurants, etc. I think this software is a great tool to use in the classroom because students can create real life situations and manage money. Since I teach kindergarten I would probably use a game like "Penguin Diner." In this game, the kids have to help a penguin by getting it back to its family, and the only way for it to do that is by managing a diner. There are all sorts of fun simulation games for all grade levels and I know the kids would love it!!

4. Instructional games : Instructional games is a type of software function designed to increase motivation by adding game rules to a learning activity. I would probably incorporate this into my classrooms on Friday or for stations. This website is great because it has instructional games for each grade level and you just pick what grade you teach. I clicked on kindergarten and one of the games was Mighty Math Zoo Zillions. It is a game where kids can play fun games, while it teaches number line concepts, addition and subtraction, counting money, and problem solving skills. This website will be great to use when I feel like a certain topic needs to be reinforced and it is fun for the kids too!

5. Problem Solving : Problem solving is a intellectual function where the learner uses high order cognitive processes to solve problems one does not initially know. The website I would incorporate into my classroom for problem solving would be Superkids. This website is great because it has a variety of games to choose from, and it tells you the age level. The game I chose was Gary Gadget: Building Cars. This is a fun program that combines classic search and exploration games. It is best for the kids that like to build or solve puzzles. I would love to use this in my classroom once I get to know the kids and what their interests are, but what boy doesn't like cars and building things!?! The only downfall about this game is that you have to pay for it. 

6. Integrated Learning Systems : ILS is an online system that provides both computer based instruction and summary reports of student progress. ILS can be used to deliver and teaching material. However, it does tend to focus on basic skills, such as literacy and numeracy. An example of an ILS is SuccessMaker. I was not able to find the Successmaker website, but it sounds like a good tool for teachers to use and it has shown some great results.   

By reading the chapters this week, I have found some great software tools that I will be able to use in my classroom this year. I hope you find the websites just as helpful as I did!!