Integrating Problem Solving and Educational Software

Elizabeth ChavezErika Kelly

Benefits of Problem Solving Software

Includes games and simulations

Well structuredApplication of content

knowledge and skillsGames promotes student

wanting to learn informationManipulations are engaging

Problem Solving Software

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU-1HqwsSaA

Benefits of Educational SoftwareOpportunity for students to engage in basic skills practice.Provides immediate individual feedback based on performance.Formats are competitive and motivational.Multimedia teaches new information and basic skills.Create positive attitudes.Provides content, practice, feedback, assessment, standards and benchmarks.

Educational Software

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45A02bE29B0

Let’s Discuss

What are the pros

and cons of

educational and

problem solving

software?

Software Evaluation Criteria1. Content Accuracy2. Research Based Instructional Strategies3. Effectively meets instructional

objectives4. Assessment of Learning5. Ease of Use

Can be conducted by a variety of people:teacher, parents, children, facility, paraprofessionals.

Lesson Plans

Computer FunctionsResearch and Analysis (Data Manipulations)Results PresentationActivities During Computer UseActivities Before Computer UseActivities After Computer Use

Lesson PlansComputer Functions Research and AnalysisLevel of interactivity

may vary.Provides content such

as: definitions, examples, images, maps, animations.

Provide practice and feedback to student in various ways.

Varies based on the function being emphasized.

Two Steps: 1. Identify the data

manipulation2. Selecting the specific

toolsMay not be applicable

Planning Computer ActivitiesBefore:Provide reinforcement or prerequisite for knowledge and skills required to complete the lesson.

During:Must plan for students to set up format, enter data, and complete activity.

After: Discuss or write about what they learned. They could draw diagrams, create a final product, or compare and contrast activity, timeline to represent new learning.

Activity1.Let’s count off by 3’s2.Pick two websites 3.Evaluate your favorite one4.Make a poster promoting the

website

Let’s Discuss…..True or False?

My school should provide access to the following websites:

1. http://www.tumblebooks.com/library/asp/home_tumblebooks.asp

2. http://www.iknowthat.com/com3. www.starfall.com4. www.superkids.com5. www.learningvillage.com6. www.vmathlive.com