Chapter 4 Reflecting On What I Know

1. There are so many types of software; how do I know which ones to include in my lessons?
Yes, there are many types of software available to educators these days.  It is not only difficult to choose what is best for a lesson but also to know what is available and how to use it effectively.  With so many different options the best thing to is research and try to stay up to date on what is out there.  That does not mean that you need to know how everything works right away but be ready and willing to try something new.  If you pick something and it works, great!  Be sure to use it again.  If it does not, don't get frustrated just try something else.  The main goal is to incorporate technology into lesson plans. 

2. 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?
These types of software, like educational software and the Internet, enhance learning and engage students.  Math problems can be brought to life by graphing answers in excel.  Database software allows students to store information and "efficiently and effectively" retrieve the data when needed (p.97).  By using video-editing software, students can record performances or even create an electronic personal reflection journal (p. 101).

3. How can student use of different types of software help improve scores on state tests?
Using these different types of software presents the information children will see on state tests in a different way.  Students have the opportunity to interact with the information they receive and they are not in a classroom listening to a lecture, taking notes and memorizing information for a test.  When children are engaged in a subject they gain a deeper appreciation for the information they are learning and thus will retain more information.

References:
Lowther, D.L. & Morrison, G.R. (2010). Integrating Computer Technology into the Classroom; Skills for the 21st Century (4th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.