Chapter Four Reflections

1. There are so many types of software; how do I know which ones to include in my lessons?

There are five main categories of software used in today's classrooms.  Productivity software is used to create a variety of products, such as papers, graphs, and drawings.  Research software includes browsers, search engines, and plug-ins used to conduct research.  Communication software comes in asynchronous and synchronous forms and is used to communicate with colleagues, students, parents, and other experts. Problem-solving software can include games to help students practice lessons or simulations intended to educate students without the need of expensive lab equipment.  Finally, education software is created to teach users new material or to practice.  It includes drill and practice software, tutorials, integrated learning systems, and processing tools.  The type of software you decide to use in your classroom should also depend on your district's technology standards!

2. I understand why students should use educational software and the Internet, but why should my fourth-grade students learn to use spreadsheet, database, or video editing software?

Fourth-grade students could really be assisted in their math assignments if they know how to use a spreadsheet.  Learning to search a database for particular information is another skill that they could benefit from, especially when conducting research in a higher level class.  And most fourth-grade students probably already know how to use video editing software better than I do!  Any of these tools can greatly increase the student's value of education and possibly make learning easier and more fun!

3. How can students use of different types of software help improve scores on state tests?

Using different types of software can often make learning easier for students and help them understand the material.  To improve state test scores in reading, for example, students can learn to highlight important parts in text or to add notes.  To help with math scores, students can practice using spreadsheets and graphs, increasing their understanding of the relationships between numbers.