EDTC 5010 Chapter 11

1.  What are the benefits of using problem-solving or educational software?

There is an increasing trend in today's problem-solving software to include games and simulations that help motivate students and engage them with the content.  "A key benefit of well-designed educational games is that they are structured to require application of content knowledge and skills in order to "win" the game which results in students wanting to learn the information, rather than learning it pass a test" ( Morrison & Lowther, 2010).   Simulations allow students the chance to control certain componenets of the simulated environment and " actively engage students in critical thinking activities that require real-world application of knowledge and skills" ( Morrison & Lowther, 2010).   Educational software consist of drill and

practice, tutorials, and integrated learning systems which can be useful when used frequently.  "One of the key benefits or drill and practice software is the opportunity for students to engage in interactive basic skills and practice that provides immediate individual performance feedback" ( Morrison & Lowther, 2010).  This instant feedback allows students to understand their performance level relative to their level of effort they just put in. Drill and practice software also allows for more effect time management as "With educational software at your disposal, you can opt to move at your own pace, and return to modules you did not understand completely. No more concerns about face to face interaction with the lecturers or other bright pupils, you can decide to review lectures at any convenient time" (Ignitionmedia, 2012).  Effective tutorials use interactive elements that engage students and make them more interested in the content which in turn increases their content retention and understanding.  

2.  How do I choose the correct software?

There are so many different choices when it comes to problem-solving and educational software, it can be difficult to choose the most efficient and effective one that will benefit your students.  When choosing it is important to keep these criteria in mind: " content accuracy, research-based instructional strategies, alignment with instructional objectives, assessment of learning, ease of use, teacher support materials, technology system requirements, and what student tools are provided" ( Morrison & Lowther, 2010).  While the teacher should test out all software before using it with their students, it is still important to get student feedback to see how they feel about the ease of use of it and the educational effectiveness of it.  "The benefits of

collecting student performance and attitude data outweigh the effort"  ( Morrison & Lowther, 2010). You may also want to check out fellow teacher and student reviews of the software before using it to gain a general sense of the product.  

3.  When I integrate problem-solving or educational software into a lesson, what changes will be needed?

The lesson will still address all ten of the components of the NTeQ lesson plan model, but slight changes may need to be made for the following six components: computer functions, research and analysis, results presentation, activities during computer use, activities before computer use, and activities after computer use.  These changes should reflect on the the objective for the computer to be used as a tool for "when the computer is integrated as a tool, students apply the same skills used in the workplace to analyze and manipulate information. By using the computer in this manner, students not only learn lesson objectives but also develop real-life knowledge and skills. This type of integration supports the current teaching practices, which emphasize a student-centered, open-ended learning environment that uses realistic contexts for learning" (Pearson).  

Bibliography:

1.  Ignitionmedia. (2012, 06 11). 5 benefits of using educational software. Retrieved from http://www.unicentralaccommodation.com.au/student-resources/5-benefits-of-using-educational-software/

2.  Pearson. (n.d.). Integrating technology for inquiry: The nteq model. Retrieved from http://wps.prenhall.com/chet_morrison_integratin_2/0,5603,92855-,00.html

3.  Morrison, G., & Lowther, D. (2010). Integrating computer technology into the classroom: skills for the 21st century . (4th Edition ed., p. 30). Pearson.