Week 3

Instructional software is a general term describing computer programs that are designed to deliver instruction or assist the teacher in delivering of instruction on a topic. The following five types of software are terms that software developers use interchangeably, so teachers must take note of what the software actually offers.

5 types of instructional software:

1.     Drill and Practice- this is a directed strategy. It allows learners to work problems/answer questions and get feedback on correctness. Drill and Practice

2.     Tutorial- this is also a directed type of strategy. This type acts like a human tutor providing all the information and instructional activities a learner needs to master a topic: information summaries, explanation, practice routines, feedback and assessment. Tutorial

3.     Simulation- this is a directed and constructivist type of strategy. Models real or imaginary systems to show how those systems or similar ones work or to demonstrate underlying concepts. Simulation

4.     Instructional Game- this is a directed and constructivist type of strategy. This type increases motivation by adding game rules to drills or simulations. Instructional Game

5.     Problem solving- this type is also directed and constructivist strategy. Problem solving does two things: first, it teaches directly the steps involved in solving problems. Second, it can also help learners acquire problem-solving skills by giving them opportunities to solve problems. Problem Solving

(Roblyer & Doering, 2013)

Refernece:

Roblyer, M.D., and Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Eduction, Inc.