Instructional Software: Are You Game for Some "Games"?

Instructional Software is defined as "a general term for computer programs designed specifically to deliver instruction or assist with the delivery of instruction on a topic" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 77).  In this week's blog, we will review six different types of software that can be incorporated into your classroom.  Stay tuned!

1.  Drill and Practice software "functions to provide exercises in which student work example items, usually one at a time and receive feedback on their correctness" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 83-84).
Examples are:
     *flashcard activities
     *chart fill in activities
     *branching drills
     *extensive feedback activities
Well designed drill and practice software should meet certain criteria.  There should be good control over the presentation rate, answer judging, and appropriate feedback for correct and incorrect answers.  
Try some Math Drills now!

2.  Tutorial software "is an entire instructional sequence on a topic, similar to a teacher's classroom instruction" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 86).  Many times, instructional tutorials are used as a primary teaching source and not as a supplement.  Students should be able to learn the topic without any other materials to assist them.  Two types of tutorial software are linear tutorials and branching tutorials.  When selecting good tutorial software, look for ones with extensive interactivity, thorough user control, appropriate pedagogy, adequate answer-judging and feedback capabilities, appropriate graphics and adequate recordkeeping.  This tutorial sample is about science, learning about basic circuitry and electricity.
Tutorial Software-Basic Circuits 

3.  Simulation software "is a computerized model of a real or imagined system that is designed to teach how the system works"  (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 90).  There are two types of simulation software: ones that teach ABOUT something and ones that teach HOW to do something.  When selecting simulation software, make sure it has clear and concise directions that will show the students how to use it quickly and easily.  Some benefits include include "real" situations and require some type of interaction.  In simulations, processes can be slowed in order to be seen by the naked eye which gets students involved.  The experimentations are safe and they make the impossible possible.  The simulations can save a system money  and it allows repetition with different variations, especially if a student is having difficulty grasping the material or if a student is absent. They also allow for observation of complex processes.This science link is an introductory of how simulations can be used in the classroom.
Try this science link!

4.  Instructional games "add game-like rules and/or competition to learning activities"(Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 95). Good instructional games must have appealing formats and activities and hold some instructional value.  The focus should be learning content-area skills.  " he appeal of games seem to center around the students' desire to compete and play" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 96).  Some limitations are learning vs. having fun.  Students can frequently confuse game rules and real-life rules as well as insufficient learning.  
Fun Brain is used for reinforcing math skills and the ABC game is reinforcing letter sounds and pictures.
Try FunBrain now!! 
ABC Game 


5.  Problem Solving is designed to do just what is says...problem solve!  It focuses on general problem solving skills as well as practice to problem solve in specific content areas.  The two approaches are content-area problem-solving skills and content-free problem-solving skills.  This type of software can be beneficial in math because it promotes visualizations as well as improves interest and motivation.  It is designed to reinforce skills already taught but for those who need extra practice.  The first game example is a game where students have to solve word problems and they work up as if playing "Who Wants to be a Millionaire".  The next one is trying to figure out how to get all the people across the bridge before the light extinguishes.  The last is just an example of some critical thinking videos for elementary students.
Solving problems...Math style!
Cross the Bridge!
Try some critical thinking on for size! 


6.  Integrated Learning Systems (ILSs) "are networked or online systems that provide both computer-based instruction and track and report on student progress" (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 102).  The benefits of ILSs is that they coincide with state and local academic standards and meets the requirements of No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act.  The down side to ILSs is that they are costly and the role in research they hold.  ILS can be used for remediation and as a mainstream delivery system  A constructivist learning approach can be approached by combining several kinds of technology resources.  

 

Hey You! Do you have a favorite educational website/software that you use?? I love http://t.co/Xy5HgxRFGm! Check it out! #EDUWA505RAY
— C. Anne Johnson (@anne_j3) June 26, 2013