Teaching With Software Tools

As I was reading Chapter 5 in Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching, I realized I use more Software Tools in my classroom than I had thought. The text describes six different types of Software support tools: materials generators, data collection and analysis tools, graphics tools, planning and organizing tools, research and reference tools, and content-area tools. Of these six, I use materials generators, data collection, graphics software tools , and planning/organizing tools the most.

I use materials generator software such as:

• Puzzlemaker (http://puzzlemaker.school.discrovery.com/) to create word searches or cross word puzzles for my first graders to enjoy.
• Worksheet Generator (http://school.discovery.com/teachingtools/worksheetgenerator/) to create take home practice tests in reading, language, and math.

I use data collection software (STI) for grade entry. STI also generates student averages for report cards.

I use graphics software tools like Art Explosion, to help reinforce language and vocabulary skills for students learning English.

I use planning and organization tools such as Kidspiration (http://www.uwstout.edu/soe/profdev/conceptmap/50uses.html) to create picture schedules for my special needs students.

Software Tools help teachers organize data, create quick assessments, and create meaningful lessons that they would have had to spend hours on if it weren't for the computer.