An instructional or educational software are various computer programs that are intended exclusively to deliver or support one or a variety of learning activities. These programs carry out one or a combination of functions. These would include, drill and practice, tutorial, simulation, instructional games and problem solving.
This particular blog however, would place emphasis on the drill and practice educational software. The drill and practice is type of software that allows students to interact with example items while receiving instant feedback which be presented in various ways according to the exercise. According to (Merrill & Salisbury, 1984) the types of drill and practice are sometimes distinguished by how the program tailors the practice session to students needs. This software is functional via flash card activities, branching drills and extensive feedback activities.Relevance and Usefulness of drill and practice software in education:
- This software allow for the effective rehearsal students need to transfer newly learned information into long- term memory. (Merrill & Salisbury, 1984; Salisbury, 1990). This replaces the use of the many worksheets and home exercises that teachers use to encourage students to fully understand newly taught concepts.
- Students can also prepare for school examinations since the program shows the students their weaknesses and allow them to strengthen them with practice.
- The software also accommodates special education teachers in dealing with children, especially with learning disabilities.
- According to (Kahn, 1998-1999):
o Students are given immediate and private feedback. This fastens the learning process.
o Those students with poor writing skills or even dislikes writing on a whole are, now motivated to practice the activity.
o The teacher also saves time, not having to correct these drill and practice activities. Thus, the teacher can now emphasize on other important issues or components of the curriculum.
Follow these links to access some drill and practice programs :–
http://www.earobics.com/
http://www.jce.divched.org/
Resourse site for teachers:- http://ww.educationworld.com
For more information on technology and education:- http://www.prenhall.com/roblyer
