ED527 Module 2 Blog Posting

According to Roblyer and Doering (2013), “there is less talk of computers replacing teachers and more about helping teachers perform various tasks in ways that transform the teaching process” (p. 77) and these eight examples of software assist teachers in instruction and learning in the 21^st century.

Drill and Practice software is designed to provide opportunities to practice skills after instruction (Roblyer & Doering, 2013).  One example is StudyStack (http://www.studystack.com/) which allows both teachers and/or students to create quizzes and flashcards and play games to practice recall of vocabulary or facts about any subject in the hopes of creating “automaticity” of knowledge or skills (p. 84).

Tutorial software is designed to provide instruction, resources, and practice of a particular subject.  Algebra’scool (http://foryourinspiration.net/reel/algebrascool/) is an example of a supplemental program that can be used with whole class or individually to provide a visual format for abstract concepts. 

Simulation software provides a “computerized model of a real or imagined system…to teach how the system works” (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 90).  Cells Alive (http://www.cellsalive.com/cells/3dcell.htm) offers cell division animation and interactive activities that simulate the various phases and processes. 

According to Roblyer and Doering (2013) instructional games are composed of rules that promote competition and entertain.  There are countless software programs that use this format to entice students to learn while playing a game.  One such example for use with any grade level is Classroom Jeopardy (http://www.superteachertools.com/jeopardy/).  This game can be personalized with information and “answers” from any subject and the students enjoy the competition.     

Problem Solving software promotes critical thinking skills.  Mind Benders software (http://www.brainbuildingfun.com/mibeso.html) develops logic, reasoning, and mental organization skills needed for higher levels of Bloom’s Taxonomy such as analysis, evaluation, and synthesis.

Integrated Learning Systems can be used to “replace teachers in delivering entire instructional sequences” (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 103).  Programs such A+ Learning System ((http://www.amered.com/awl_products.php) are used by some school systems as either Credit Recovery or as the initial instruction for students in certain situations.  It provides instruction, interactive examples and practice, graphics, feedback, and recordkeeping and can even be adapted for lower levels of skills.

Materials Generators are some of the most useful and managed technology for today’s teachers because they incorporate many of the software suites that improve productivity, appearance, and accuracy (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p.113). When these tools are combined with other software, teachers’ instructional and organizational needs are met (p. 142).  PDFescape (http://www.pdfescape.com/what/) is a free online software tool that allows teachers to create forms that can be stored online.  Teachers can create online tests and have students complete paper-free assessments.

Content-area software is exceptionally useful for students when learning new languages.  ASLPro (http://www.aslpro.com/) is an interactive website that serves as online dictionary of American Sign Language vocabulary as well as access to other tools for learning ASL.

All of these programs are useful for me as a teacher.  They save time and resources, assist me in instruction, and provide my students and me the integrated technology practice that is required of today’s professions and learning. 

Roblyer M. D., & Doering, A. H. (2013).  Integrating educational technology into teaching (6^th

ed.).  Upper Saddle River, NJ:  Pearson Education Inc.