According to Roblyer (2016), in most areas of modern society three of the most used software support tools are word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation programs. Using these allow for improved productivity, appearance, accuracy, and supports interaction and collaboration (Roblyer, 2016, p.109)
Word Processing Software:
Word processing software (for example: Microsoft Word) allows you to create documents of typed text and graphics. This software is also easy to use and many prefer it over written text. Word processor allows you to save time, enhance a documents appearance, share documents, collaborate on documents, and support student writing and language learning (Roblyer, 2016, p.114-115).
Although there are many benefits of using word processor, the software also has a few issues. When using it, many have to figure out at what age a student should begin getting introduced to it and learning their keyboarding skills. Some teachers believe that by using word processor, it will impact students handwritting negaitvely.
Spreadsheet Software:
Spreadsheet software (for example: Microsoft Excel) allows you to organize and calculate numerical data. This software is beneficial when needing to keep track of budgets, student's grades, cash flow, etc. Spreadsheet allows you to save time, organize displays of information, support asking "what if" questions, and increases motivation to work with mathematics.
An issue with spreadsheets is that many whom fear mathematics, also fear this software. So before using spreadsheets, I would recommend allowing students to get comfortable with it first. Help your students see that this software can help them and further their math abilities.
Presentation Software:
Presentation software (for example: Microsoft PowerPoint) allows you to display information, including text, images, audio, and video, in a slideshow format (Roblyer, 2016, p.125). Having presentation softwares allow teachers to present a topic and keep it engaging by doing things such as review games, virtual fieldtrips, etc. Teachers use this software to organize thinking about a topic, enhance the impact of spoken information, and allow collaboration on presentations (Roblyer, 2016, p.127).
Although many love presentation softwares, there are a few down falls to them. Many believe that they can be a "trap for bad teaching" and say that presentations can often distract students, making them focus more on the presentation imagery and not the information itself.
Classroom Chosen Software:
In my classroom, I would use presentation softwares the most with word processors coming in at a close second. One of my favorite presentation methods is a website called Nearpod. I learned about this in my Lit-Block classes at the university I attend. It has so many ways to present a topic to your class while keeping your students very engaged.
Below is an example of a Nearpod presentation and how it is used:
Roblyer, M. D. (2016). Integrating educational technology into
teaching. Boston: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon.
I love the idea of using nearpod in the classroom. I think this gives students a way to be actively engaged in the presentation. The book talks about a negative to presentation software being that the students aren't always actively engaged as the teacher is presenting the slideshow, with Nearpod, students are clicking through and answering questions as they go.
ReplyDeletep.s. I like your blog background and color scheme! It's so cute!
Nearpod really is a great way of using presentation software in the classroom. I love that it keeps students engaged and active throughout the presentation. It almost forces the students to pay attention so they can complete the questions during the presentation. It is also a great assessment tool for us as teachers to monitor our students learning.
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