Drill & Practice
Drill and practice deals mostly with memorization and acts like an automated flash card, "usually one at a time, and [students] receive feedback on their correctness" (Roblyer & Doering, 2012, p. 84).The program presents a question to the learner, the learner responds, and the software then gives feedback as to whether the answer is correct or incorrect. Some programs simply present the next item if the student answers correctly.
One way for Drill & Practice to be integrated into the classroom is during review. It is a great, quick tool to use after material has been taught and right before a test to review the material they should already know.
For Chemistry Drill & Practice, Click HERE
Tutorial
Tutorial software is great for individual use and is used to instruct the learner. "Students should be able to learn the topic without any other help or materials" ( p. 86). This type of software may include some practice, but it is primarily used in a teaching capacity. Tutorial software usually assesses the learner's skill first, then presents new instruction, gives practice then accesses before moving on to the next level or topic.
I would use tutorial in the classroom for a student who missed lesson. That way, they could get a more in-depth lesson on the material they were absent for.
For Math Tutorial Software, Click HERE
Simulation
Typically used in science and social studies, "a simulation is a computerized model of a real or imagined system that is designed to teach how the system works" (p. 90). The purpose of simulation software is to provide an analogy of a real life situation. This type of software is time effective, cost effective.
Some labs and field trips are very expenses. Simulations can help get the lesson across to the students while also being engaging and cost-efficient.
For simulated frog dissection, Click HERE.
Instructional games
Very engaging, "instructional games add game-like rules and/or competition to learning activities" (p. 94). In doing so, this increases motivation. Instructional games often combine drill & practice with simulation.
I really like incorporating games into my lessons. I typically make a Jeopardy game right before my end of the chapter tests as a review and for extra test points to the winning team.
This year I plan on using this website of Environmental games for many my Environmental Science class.
Problem Solving
The purpose of problem solving software is to present the learner with a problem, and to teach problem solving and decision making skills. "Although simulations and instructional games are often used to help teach problem-solving skills, problem-solving software is designed especially for this purpose" (p. 99). Problem solving software can be used in both individual and group settings; it can even be incorporated into a game. In most cases, the student is presented with a problem, considers various approaches, makes a decision and acts, where applicable.
I would mostly use this type of software in my Environmental Science class. Given a environmental problem such as deforestation leading to loss of habitat in a given area, they would have to work together to solve the problem and think of alternative methods.
Challenge your memory with this problem solving software
Integrated Learning Systems
"Integrated learning systems (ILSs) are networked or online systems that provide both computer-based instruction and track and report on student progress" (p. 102). Usually expensive, ILS usually combines drill-and-practice, tutorial, simulation and problem-solving.
I probably wouldn't use ILS in my classroom, however, I may suggest it for some students with learning disabilities who need to master certain lessons since it is self-paced.
Aleks is a great ILS that uses both drill and problem-solving.
References
Roblyer, M. D.; Doering, Aaron H. (2012-01-17). Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching (6th Edition). Pearson. Kindle Edition.
@khanacademy is a wonderful Integrated Learning System! #ED5059413UWA
— Reese F. Baby ™ (@DiVaLishReC) June 21, 2013
I like the idea of using tutorial software for a student who missed a lesson. That is a great idea, and a very practical one. It ensures that students learn the material covered and don't get behind. It also gives them a fun way to make up missed work.
ReplyDeleteIn the chapter I read about digital dissection taking place of traditional dissection it makes a lot of sense, the web site is great you put in your blog about digital frog dissection. I remember the smell of dissection when I was young I am sure this is big turn off for some students.
ReplyDeleteShaRetha,
ReplyDeleteExcellent post! Also, it is wonderful that some software companies are designing to various learning styles which will empower teachers to better assist students (Roblyer & Doering, 2013, p. 77). Additionally, simulations are awesome for science (p.91). I have used simulations to replace real-live dissections for those students who were opposed to dissecting animals and if I can find an alternative to giving zeros, I do (p.91). Moreover, simulations are a good way to prepare students to conduct real-live labs (p.91). Finally, using simulations save time, resources, and money; and still enhances learning (p.93).
Roblyer, M .D. & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating
Educational Teaching Technology into Teaching (6th ed.).
Boston, MA: Pearson