Evaluating software

Before deciding what software to integrate into the curriculum, a teacher must really get to know the students as individuals in the classroom. What works for one student may not be the right software for another. Some students may need help with organization before they can write. They may benefit from a software program such as Kidspiration. Others may have a difficult time writing because they get bogged down in being able to spell words correctly or aren't able to type fast enough to avoid frustration. They may need a word prediction software such as Word Q. Perhaps they would benefit from both. Some students have difficulty even getting started on the writing assignment.

Perhaps these students would benefit from being able to dictate their story to a program such as Audacity. This program will record their voice and students can go back and listen to what they have created and do some self-editing. When the right software is being utilized for individual students and they are able to use it consistently, then these students who previously were unable to do anything on their own, become independent workers and your class becomes easier to manage. Evaluating the right software is critical to being effective software to enhance learning and teaching. Know your students' needs and what's available to you as technological resources. That's the first step in fitting your students with the most beneficial software or hardware.
Cindy

Blogging for teaching tips and tricks

I have not had a lot of experience with blogging but have realized the benefits of blogs. In my time as a teacher, I have relied upon technology to help me solve many problems. Whenever I have had issues with lesson plans, behavior, class management, or motivation, I have gone to the computer to do some research. Lots of those times, I have ended up in the middle of a blog where others have been having similar problems as I have. I have come away with new and creative ideas to teach an old concept, new plans to tackle a behavior problem, or fresh ideas to try and motivate my students to learn. We often become bogged down in our set ways and our teaching can become stale and lack the passion needed to stimulate our kids. There a lots of creative people out there with wonderful ideas that I had never thought of. I was delighted that they had decided to share with others.
Another way I have seen blogging benefit our students was through writing about their reading. The reading specialist and principal had created book clubs for 5th grade boys and girls that occurred after school and at lunch. These kids started to blog about what they had read and suddenly became more motivated about reading and writing. It was fascinating to see the growth in writing through the use of blogs.
Cindy