Five Instructional Types of Software
Instructional software- computer programs designed to perform teaching functions, to assist students with instruction on topics, and/or to enhance instructional activities.
1. Drill and Practice Software programs are designed to provide students with practice on specific skills. These programs provide direct feedback on correct and incorrect answers and can help students transfer newly learned skills into long-term memory. Some examples of these programs include flash card activities, branching drill (moving the student to increasingly more advanced skills), and feedback activities. One specific example is an addition math fact practice site used for practicing addition facts. http://www.mrmyers.org/Math_Mania/ttadd.html
2. Tutorial Software programs are designed to provide instruction as a self-contained instructional unit where students are able to learn about a topic without extra help or other materials.
Linear tutorials provide explanation of information, practice, and feedback. Branching tutorials offer more complex information based upon mastery of skills. Students need to read and comprehend fairly well and be able to work independently. One specific example is a multiplication and division "how-to" site designed to provide step-by-step help with multi-step problems. http://www.thinkingblocks.com/ThinkingBlocks_MD/TB_MD_Main.html
3. Simulation Software programs are computerized models of real or imaginary systems that are designed to teach how the system works. Students choose tasks and choose what order to do them in. Physical simulations allow students to manipulate processes shown on a screen. Iterative simulations speed up or slow down processes so that students can clearly see events unfold. Procedural simulations show sequences of steps to perform procedures. Situational simulations provide hypothetical situations where students must respond. One specific example would be for students learning about space technology, they could explore outer space while manning their own space flight operation. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVoV7UR6eEs
4. Instructional Software programs are designed to increase motivation through fun entertaining, competitive games. Teachers use these software games along with other classroom instructional activities to hold student's attention. Instructional games use drills and/or simulations along with game rules. One specific example would be learning rounding in math through a game. http://www.softschools.com/mathg.jsp
5. Problem-Solving Software programs are designed to teach problem-solving skills. It also provides opportunities to practice solving various kinds of content area problems. The programs provide challenging, interesting links to developing problem-solving skills or abilities. One specific example would be a space exploration webquest.
http://www.teacherwebquest.com/NF/MUN/ISS/h3.stm
