The chapters we covered in Module 1
discussed using software technology to improve the learning atmosphere in the classroom. The first three software tools I am focusing on are covered in Chapter 3. These types of teaching software include Drill and Practice, Tutorial, Simulations, Instructional Games and
Problem Solving.
Quizlet-- (www.quizlet.com)
Drill and Practice
The flashcard creator Quizlet www.quizlet.com falls under Drill and
Practice software. Drill and Practice is defined as “exercises in which a
students work example items, usually one at a time, and receive feedback on
their correctness” (Robyer and Doering, 2013, p.81). This will work very well in my
class as we have a lesson on leaf identification. The previous classes all
studied from a leaf booklet that contained actual leaves pasted in the book. By creating our own flashcards, I could choose the image
that I want my students to study and eliminate the leaves falling apart within the book.
How the Market Works-- (http://www.howthemarketworks.com)
Simulation
Stock
market simulation is another great example of software to use in the class.
Since this software is “a computerized model of a real or imagined system that
is designed to teach how the system works” (Robyer and Doering, 2013, p.90), it
clearly falls under the simulation type of software. The site
howthemarketworks.com is a phenomenal teaching aid. Students can learn how to trade real stocks in a controlled environment setting with their own
monetary limits with no risk, just reward. The students get the feel for how to
trade stocks at a brokerage, seeing real time market prices with virtual
money. This is the closest you can come to real trading and seeing how the
markets function while discovering that hands on experience is the best way to
learn.
Sheppard’s Software: Brain Games-- (http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/braingames/braingames.htm)
Instructional Games
Sheppard’s Software: Brain Games is another excellent site
where you can find hundreds of educational games. This software falls under the
category of instructional games that “bridge the worlds of gaming,
entertainment and education in an attempt to deliver fun and effective
learning” (Robyer and Doering, 2013, p.94). These types of games are great
especially when students have to memorize a list, such as state capitals
and their eyes start glazing over before you get past the first 10. By setting
up the learning in a game format, it triggers the competitiveness of the
student and essentially tricks them into retaining the information by
progressing through the game.
Software and Support Tools:
Test Generator: Vocabtest-- (http://www.vocabtest.com/user_test.php)
Material Generator
Software and Support Tools:
Test Generator: Vocabtest-- (http://www.vocabtest.com/user_test.php)
Material Generator
This site is extremely helpful and would be a valuable asset in my class. Material
generators are a huge time saver, as well as excellent for targeting key
materials that students need to learn. This particular site for vocabtest.com
is one of the best vocabulary test sites I have seen. It focuses on all the
grades and book levels so you can really custom tailor exams for your specific
class.
Wikipedia-- (http://en.wikipedia.org)
Research and Reference Tools
As for research and reference tools, Wikipedia is an endless source of information. No matter what you need information on, odds are, there is something about it on this site. It is great when you are putting lesson plans together or when a student has a question, you can walk them through how to find answers for themselves. This not only gives them knowledge, but also boosts their self-confidence because they found the answer themselves.
Another type of support tool is an interactive whiteboard. Roblyer and Doering refer to an interactive whiteboard as "the electronic version of a regular whiteboard" (Robyer and Doering, 2013, p.147) This website focuses on using the interactive board to enhance teaching and learning.
Wikipedia-- (http://en.wikipedia.org)
Research and Reference Tools
As for research and reference tools, Wikipedia is an endless source of information. No matter what you need information on, odds are, there is something about it on this site. It is great when you are putting lesson plans together or when a student has a question, you can walk them through how to find answers for themselves. This not only gives them knowledge, but also boosts their self-confidence because they found the answer themselves.
Another type of support tool is an interactive whiteboard. Roblyer and Doering refer to an interactive whiteboard as "the electronic version of a regular whiteboard" (Robyer and Doering, 2013, p.147) This website focuses on using the interactive board to enhance teaching and learning.
M1 21st Century Instructional Tool for Enhanced Teaching and Learning http://t.co/qyxTLUD0bo via @TonyaRoden #ED527UMChapter 4 refers to The Basic Suite and specifically discusses the impact of spreadsheets in Education. "Spreadsheets have seen widespread adoption throughout education" (Robyer and Doering, 2013, p.122). This video briefly discusses why you should use Microsoft Excel.
— Bart Raulston (@BartRaulston) September 5, 2013
M1 Comments:
ReplyDeleteBart,
Firstly, you have a nice-looking blog here. I enjoyed reading your posts, as you certainly have a knack for engaging students and letting them have fun while still learning. "How the Market Works" would be a fun tool, even for me, because I do not understand stocks, etc., at all, and I think many people feel like it is beyond their reach. Placing this rather dry subject in game form is perfect. I also looked at Sheppard's Software for my reflection; their games are fun and informative, so good choice in including them. The only suggestion I would have would be to ensure that students use Wikipedia only as a quick tool rather than in-depth research. Should they get in the habit of overusing Wikipedia, they may be lost when they have to write in-depth research papers with reputable sources. Very informative blog post!
I also used Quizlet as one of my examples. It seems to be a quick and easy way to learn any subject. I think the flashcards would be great for your leaf identification project. Maybe there is software that would allow your students to make their own leaf booklets. What subject/s do you teach? Your link about interactive whiteboards also goes great with the topics we are currently discussing. I find them very interesting and would like to learn more. I definitely enjoy when teachers find new ways to make lessons interactive. I wonder what students think of it. The video clip also goes along with the topic. What do you use Microsoft Excel for in your classroom? Do you currently use any of the other software in your classroom, and did you find anything that you are going to try and use in the future?
ReplyDeleteI also used Wikipedia as an example. It can be a great resource to get a overview of different subjects. However, Wikipedia isn't always accurate, therefore it's a good idea to be wary because anyone can make an article for Wikipedia.....With that being said it is a good resource for studying or reviewing for a test.
ReplyDelete