Week 3-Examples of Different Types of Software

Examples of Different Types of Software

Drill and practice:
Earobics-Helping Readers Reach is one example of a tutorial type of software. The site is http://www.earobics.com/.  Through the use of interactive instruction, students can develop skills, engage with lively instructional characters, and advance as they are ready to advance.  all instruction is supported by a blend of multimedia materials and student-guided activities that extend the computer experience in the classroom.

Tutorial:
Congress for Kids at http://www.congressforkids.net/ is a tutorial site.  The site teaches children about the American Government. The home page gives the option of clicking on Independence, Constitution, Legislative Branch, Executive Branch, Judicial Branch, Elections, and Citizenship.  There are quizzes and activities to teach each of the topics.

Simulations:
Stagecast is an example of simulation software for students. In the classroom, this software can be used to give students the power to create lively interactive simulations for math, reading, science and more.  This software can be used for any subject, for any grade level, by both boys and girls, and by students with a wide variety of learning styles.  Children learn by building things. The site is located at http://www.stagecast.com/school.html.  One feature that I would definitely use in the classroom is the Educational Game-making tool.  Stagecast Creator teaches students how to make their own computer games.

Instructional Games:
Zoodles is a free online education service that makes learning fun for kindergarteners. The site is located at http://www.zoodles.com/.  Zoodles brings together the most engaging educational content on the web and adapts it to the skills and interests of kindergarten children. Zoodle cintains engaging playful activities-like puzzles, games and videos. I will be able to use this site as a Librarian to assist kindergarten children in learning new skills.

Problem Solving:
The Geometer's Sketchpad at http://www.dynamicgeometry.com/ is a problem solving site for students of mathematics.  This site can be used in classrooms at all levels of the mathematics curriculum. This site gathers information about fieldtested classroom activities (including teacher notes, student worksheets, and/or Sketchpad documents), all ready for immediate classroom use.

Integrated Learning Systems:
The CompassLearning Odyssey Manager is one example of an integrated learning system.  The website is located at http://www.compasslearning.com/.  The site focuses on several subjects including reading, language arts, social studies, and math.  In the area of Primary Reading/Language Arts the site is designed to support each student's learning style and level of achievment. Odyssey is a program developed for work on high-frequency words, study skills, fluency, vocabulary, letter recognition, writing conventions, sounds, and reading comprehension.  Odyssey can be used to teach writing with its engaging writing tools.  The tool can help students develop their imaginations as well as their technical skills.