Week 7: What I've Learned

This week’s assignment once again leaves me exploring the universe.  As I’ve stated repeatedly here on this very blog, I’m amazed each week when I realize the amount of information that is available to us all and how little I am actually accessing.  On one hand, it makes me very excited at the endless possibilities.  However, on the other hand, I get depressed and weary; pondering all the things I still need to find and how much I just don’t know!  Ok, enough of my neurosis…..here’s what I’ve learned this week!

In review, there are seven different types of educational software, including Drill and Practice, Problem Solving, Creative, Tutorial, Simulation, Image and Draw/Paint.  After reviewing the different types of educational software, I’ve found that I really like several of those types.  Each type can be tailored to specific goals and that makes choosing difficult.  The problem with picking software is two-fold.  First, you must know that it will meet your educational goals.  And two….well, you have to consider purchase price.  Part of this dilemma is solved by free software, known as shareware and freeware.  However, again, there are limitations to the ‘freeness’ as you are sometimes given demos and/or expiration dates on those freebies. 

Being a student of education rather than a teacher at this point, my experience with educational software is from a strictly academic standpoint rather than a user’s perspective.  In general, I want to use Drill and Practice software such as those used in balancing chemical equations.  This type of software can offer immediate answers to student attempts.  In addition, it can show the corrected equation and give information (i.e. Tutorial) on how to complete the process for future equations.  Drill and Practice type software is great for younger learners as they are learning concepts and definitions for the first time. 

Discover! Science also offers a great software package that caters to learners in middle and high school.  http://www.scienceschoolhouse.com/index.php?target=products&product_id=5  This software combines several of the different types of education software (BONUS!)  It offers pieces of drill and practice, problem solving, tutorial and simulation.  In this software, the student is given presentation in tutorial form, but then they are assigned quizzes.  One of the most exciting pieces of the software for learners would be the virtual lab.  Virtual labs like those presented in this software or others, like Froguts, offer the student the excitement of lab work without the expense or potential hazards.  Students love the hands on of labs, but administrators worry about the cost and the risks associated with lab work.  This software helps with both sides of the issue.  The lab work is done through the virtual world and is ‘game-like’ to the student.  While the blood and guts are absent, it does provide the student with a true ‘view’ of the lab without the dreaded expense or mess of a live lab.  Of course, as with most software expense may be an issue here.  But again, teachers and administrators must consider the costs of individual labs with the cost of software that can be used repeatedly.  (Insert rubric for cost effective software here!)

As usual, this week has been a great learning experience and once again, an exercise in, “What?  Who knew THAT was available?!”  I love that feeling though…and am truly happy that I’m finding all this incredible information.  Have a great week!