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.