Week 3 Instructional Software

Instructional software is a term used to describe computer programs that are made to deliver instruction or to assist in the delivery of instruction. There are five functions of instructional software available, drill and practice, tutorial, simulation, instructional games, and problem solving. All of these software types can be easily accessed through the internet.

Drill and Practice Software

Drill and Practice software offers students a way to work problems or answer questions and receive feedback. The feedback may simple or elaborate and explain why they got the problem wrong. Good drill and practice software should allow the student to take as much time as needed to answer questions, unless it is a timed activity. The software should also be able to decipher right and wrong answers, as well as, giving student’s suitable feedback for correct or incorrect answers. An example of drill and practice software can be found here: http://www.classbraingames.com/2010/02/math-drills/

Tutorial Software

Tutorial software offers a sequence of instruction on a single topic. There are two types of tutorials, linear and branching. Linear tutorials are the same for each student no matter how they answer questions or complete activities, whereas branching tutorials lead students through differing paths depending upon their answers.  An example of tutorial software can be found here: http://www.sciencebob.com/experiments/videos/index.php

Simulation Software

Simulation software is a computer generated model designed to show how something works. Simulations may teach learners how to do something or teach students about something. A simulation allows students to play an active role in learning, and allows them to repeat activities, like an experiment, as many times as they would like. An example of simulation software can be found here:http://education.nationalgeographic.com/education/multimedia/interactive/the-underground-railroad/?ar_a=1

 

Instructional Games Software

Instructional game software is a way to allow students to play a game while learning or reviewing content. Instructional games have rules and offer a sense of competition.  Instructional gaming software should be appealing to students, have significant instructional value and should be age appropriate. An example of instructional game software can be found here:  http://www.funbrain.com/grammar/index.html

Problem Solving Software

Problem solving software is tailored specifically to enhance problem solving skills. Problem solving software can be content related and specific to a subject or content free, which focuses on problem solving skills in general. An example of problem solving software can be found here: http://school.discoveryeducation.com/mathgames/sphinx/