Chapter 5 - Teaching with Software Tools

Beyond Basic Software of word processing, spreadsheets, and databases

Developments in Support Tools

• PDA's and cell phones make software tools portable and more accessible
• Can now connect items/links from the web to documents and presentations
• Sold in suites or packages for convenience

Software Tool Categories

• Materials Generators
• Data Collection
• Graphic Tools
• Planning and Organizing
• Research and Reference
• Content-area Tools

1. Material Generators - Table 5.2 for examples

• desktop publishing - control over form an appearance of printed page
• difference btwn word processing and desktop publishing - 1 flows pages in continuous stream and 2 pages viewed as separate units
• use word processing unless teaching students about newspaper or book formatting
• in class applications - practice with grammar and communication, different ways of reporting, creativity
• Generators for: tests, rubrics, worksheets, puzzles, IEP's, graphic organizers

2. Data Collection - help collect and organize student info

• include electronic grade books, student information systems
• computer adaptive testing - taking tests on the computer
• student response systems - students answer questions all at once with clickers
• CMI - computer managed instruction - keep track of student progress, see weaknesses

3. Graphic Tools - manipulating images image editing tools - modify photos

• charts and graphs - draw and print charts from data collected
• clip art, videos, fonts, sounds - all used to enhance final product

4. Planning and Organizing Tools

• outline tools - help writers with outlines using prompts and questions
• concept mapping - visual learners
• schedule makers - generate daily and monthly schedules for teachers (electronic planner)

5. Research and Reference Tools

• electronic encyclopedias - ex. Encarta,
• electronic atlases
• electronic dictionaries

6. Tools for Content Areas

• CAD - computer assisted design - drawing and morphing
• Music Editors - MIDI - musical instrument digital interface, sequencers
• Reading tools - AR, CD-Rom versions, Cloze programs - fill in the blanks while reading
• Microcomputer Based Labs - probewares - hardware with sensors to use with software for labs
• Graphing Calculators
• Geographic Information Systems and GPS - global positioning systems