Using Computer Programs to assist in teaching Elementary School Math
All any teacher need do is to walk down any computer stores software isle and see a staggering number of commercial programs available for teaching math to students from K through 6th grade. How do you choose the one that is right for your students? Here are a few tips that can assist in selecting the program that is just right for your students:
First and most important, determine the license agreement before you purchase. Some programs require a separate purchase of each disk per computer. If you plan on installing the program on multiple computers, then the cost might be more than you are willing to pay. There are many programs that allow the teacher to install the program on a set number of computers, these programs are far more ‘classroom’ friendly and some even allow for a limited number of ‘backup’ disks to be made.
Second check out how the student is to input the answers or solve the various puzzles. Is the mouse the primary input device, is it the keyboard, or both? Stick to those programs that allow a choice of input devices. If the mouse becomes unavailable then the student can still use the keyboard to enter their choices.
Next determine if the program allows the student to ‘skip to the answer’ as one of the input choices. Too many times students will simply press this option just to avoid being wrong or to get a ‘perfect’ score (and the reward that the program usually gives). Chose those programs that allow this option to be disabled it will solve a lot of problems later on.
Finally does the program establish good learning behaviors and allows enough time to complete each answer or section. Too many programs are flash and little substance, make sure that the program covers a wide range of math subjects and actually targets the age/grade level it states on the packaging.
Remember these programs can be a tremendous aid in teaching elementary level mathematics but no program can take the place of a well versed teacher. Use these programs to supplement, not as the main learning tool.
Using Math Software in the Classroom
I believe that in as we become a more technologically advanced society that we need more math technology in our classrooms if our students are to become successful in a competitive work environment. After reviewing your thoughts on purchasing software I have to agree that one should first consider what the software agreement is. The license agreement can be the make or break part of the your classroom receiving the software. However, I would have to say that after reviewing the license agreement a teacher should look to see if the software allows for students to explore various mathematical concepts. A program like GSP can provide students of any grade level the ability to explore countless concepts, and this will also allow for their ability of critical thinking to flourish in your classroom. I think too often teachers first explore the lower level knowledge based questioning when they begin a new endeavor. We too should think beyond the box, and explore where we can take our students in this technologically rich era.
March 4th, 2009 | #
Using Math Software in the Classroom II
After thinking about my original post I would have to say that one more thing should be considered before selecting software for a classroom, and that would be money. Currently, you can’t turn on the television, look at a newspaper, or see a financial statement without hearing about or feeling the effects of the economy. Now I’m not saying that we should hold off on educating the youth of this country until we allocate the proper funds, but we should not jump at the first program that catches our eye. I feel that before we purchase these programs for our schools we should present sufficient research. I feel that with a little research we may be able to save money on a similar program that does the same thing, but b/c it is a generic model it is cheaper. So before you select a program make sure that a colleagues job is not going to be in danger for selecting it. With a little research we can create a better learning environment while saving a few pennies too.
March 8th, 2009 | #