Instructional software is a general term for computer
programs designed specifically to deliver instruction or assist with the
delivery of instruction on a topic. They
serve many purposes other than teaching; instructional software packages are
developed for the sole purpose of supporting instruction and/or learning. There are five instructional software
functions used for teaching. 1. Drill
and practice software allows learners to work problems or answer questions and
get feedback on correctness. BrainPop is
an example of this software. Click here
to learn more about BrainPop. 2.
Tutorial software acts like a human tutor by providing all the information and
instructional activities a learner needs to master a topic: information
summaries, explanation, practice routines, feedback, and assessment. ETCAI is an example of this software. Click
here to learn more about ETCAI. 3.
Simulation software models real or imaginary systems to show how those systems
or similar ones work or to demonstrate underlying concepts. Digital Frog is an example of this
software. Click here to learn more about Digital Frog. 4. Instructional game software increases
motivation by adding game rules to drills or simulations. iCivics is an example of this software. Click here
to learn more about iCivics. 5. Problem
solving software teaches directly (through explanation and/or practice) the
steps involved in solving problems. It
also helps learners acquire problem solving skills by giving them opportunities
to solve problems. Memory Challenge is
an example of this software. Click here to learn more about
Memory Challenge.
I really like the iCivics website. The graphics are sure to gain the student's attention and strike an interest in a rather boring topic to elementary students. I will share this with my teachers :)
ReplyDeleteI really really loved the digital frog site. Very educational!!! We have a story about frogs in our Storytown books and my students would love these. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI used a website similar to the digital frog in high school because I could not handle the sight of blood. I can tell you first hand how real simulations can be! Your blog contains great examples of the different types of software. I enjoyed comparing what I found to your findings.
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