Academic Software

If I could change some areas on this list it would be the state license because I don’t see why someone would need a state license to buy a computer program. It would be very useless to buy a license and not even have to use it. I would add to the list qualities, usage in classroom, and learning abilities. Qualities would be important because sound and image is needed to be able to use the software. If the picture is bad and the sound if bad then the program is useless and not very reliable. I wouldn’t want to waste my money on a program that isn’t very well when in use. Another would be the usage in the classroom and if it is even needed. If a teacher bought a program to use and ends up only using it once or twice, then they would have wasted spending that money. I would do some research on the program to see if I need it in the classroom first. The last thing that needs to be added would be the learning abilities, such as if the students get anything out of it. Say I was to use software and the students weren’t able to learn much from it, then I would be upset. I think by adding this, teachers can see percentages on how much students take in from it.

                The most important ones that I had noticed or stood out to me were grade level, cost, and documentation. The grade level on the software program must be in the same range as the grade level that and I would be using it for. The cost must be in reasonable price range and if I were to buy a program worth $200 over another that costs $25 and the they both work the same, I would go with the smaller price one.  The last area I thought was important was the documentation because it needs to be easy to read, and easy to understand. If the program is not easy to use then the students can’t use it.

                The three programs I choose were:

1)      Reader Rabbit- I used this when learning to read and it does help and some areas get stuck in your mind.

2)      Microsoft Office- Students can always use different programs on there and it is fun to use.

3)      Dictionary- students who don’t understand how to say a word can hear it on the program and it would be easier for them.

Digital Tools

         

                My first digital technology item that I would need in my classroom would be a touch screen computers. These computers would only be used for reading and games that would or could influence them in the class to learn better. I would still have regular computers for typing or researching, but I would like at least 2 or 3 touch screens. Then the students could be more interested in learning how to read by actually interacting and touching and moving words or the games they could play, instead of clicking a mouse.

                The next choice I would like to use in my classroom would be the electronic whiteboard. This digital technology device would be able to help me teach my lessons and not have to stand at the front of the class and be a distraction. Most teachers may still use chalkboards, dry erase boards, and overhead projectors, but this item would be the best choice for my classroom. I wouldn’t have to be in the front the whole time, I could be able to change colors for the writing and that may interest them more and I would be able to move around as  I teach the lesson on the board and not have to stay in one spot. I think this is the best thing that they have invented yet.

                Another technology item I chose was speakers and head phones. This may go back to last week’s question if it is okay to allow students to listen to an electronic version of a book instead of another student or teacher. Well in order to allow my students to be able to accomplish that they will need head phones or speakers to do so. Speakers could come in handy for me when I teach something and may to show them a video of some sort. Having speakers and headphones would be a very helpful item in the class.

                The last digital device I chose was the e books that a teacher may get. E books are a good item to use in the class room because I remember as an elementary kid and having to use a text book got boring and kids don’t take care of them well. Having an electronic book to read or listen to may help the students focus more because it switches things up and it won’t be so boring. I liked the e book I had to use for class and I could see students in elementary school liking them also.