Due to the widespread of the advancement of technology many companies have created all types of software programs. Some of the software is beneficial in the classroom while others are not. Many teachers and websites have evaluations on how to evaluate a software program to see if it is something beneficial to use for a lesson. Teachers and educators evaluate software on the internet and in local schools on software used. Another aspect is that teachers should pick software programs and experiment with it before introducing it to their students. Websites such as Super Kids also offers reviews on Software Programs used for students. It can be visited by clicking http://www.superkids.com/ . Many educational websites offer reviews on software programs, evaluations and criteria on software programs, and examples of how the software improves the lesson plans. Another great site to visit when looking at the software reviews or how it works is YouTube. It offers many examples of software tutorials and examples of lessons.
I understand why students should use educational software and the Internet, but why should my fourth-grade students learn to use spreadsheet, database, or video editing software?
Students embrace technology faster than adults and many learn technology skills faster than adults through experimentation and practice. Technology in education is growing and many students are introduced to the technology advances earlier in life. Many students by the fourth grade are very familiar with computers, texting on cell phones, video games, ipods, and other advanced devices. This gives them a head start on learning how to use spreadsheets, databases, and video editing software. Many of the fourth graders today are advanced with technology and teachers introducing new software to them improves their education and knowledge because they learn these skills early on that will help them succeed later in their education. Summer camps and afterschool programs are filling the world with technology advancement for young people. That goes to show that fourth graders can start learning and playing around with this sort of software. Students are proud when they learn new things and introducing them to new software encourages their minds in the area of technology and how it can be applied to their lessons and life. Many students find themselves educating parents and grandparents in order to catch up to the Technological Global World.
How can student use of different types of software help improve scores on states tests?
The importance of standarized testing has become a major aspect in education of students. The students and teachers spend more of classroom time focusing on passing these tests than the curriculum of learning and having fun. Students are stressed so much for these tests that teachers are finding resources to use to help prepare students for the state test with fun activities that are beneficial. Many types of educational software has been created to help improve students knowledge and understanding to perform better on these tests. Many students spend time with programs such as Accelerated Reader and other programs preparing them for these tests. Students are reading books of their choice but are learning how to approach reading comprehension testing through these tests on the computer on their book. Many schools have adopted certain programs to improve students reading, writing, and math skills for the End of Grade Testing. Duplin County Schools at North Duplin Elementary School has Power Up and Power Down everyday except for Fridays to help prepare students for these tests. Many of the students uses a educational software program to work on their reading or math skills. This has been beneficial to their understanding and testing scores. Many students enjoy learning and practicing these skills on the computer. Other help and tutoring is also done during this time to help students improve their skills. The Smart Board is a great tool to help teachers also. I have seen a teacher use this to engage students in learning Math and other subjects.
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