Assessment No. 3 | Chapter 3-Instructional Software

These are computer programs designed specifically to deliver instruction or assist with the delivery of instruction on a topic.

Functions fulfilled by instructional software includes the following, but programs that include all these functions plus more are also available as integrated learning systems.

• drill-and-practice

• tutorial and simulation

• instructional game

• problem-solving programs

Recent developments in instructional software include:

• increased use of online access

• multi-platform use

• multimedia and game formats

• renewed emphasis on undirected strategies

These are programs that provide exercises in which students work example items, usually one at a time, and receive feedback on their correctness.

These are programs that provide an entire instructional sequence on a topic, similar to a teacher's classroom instruction.

These are programs that provide computerized models of a real or imagined system that is designed to teach how the system works.

These are programs that add game-like rules and/or competition to learning activities.

Software designed especially for the purpose of teaching component skills in problem solving.

These are networked or online systems that provide both computer-based instruction and track and report on student progress.

Types of drill-and-practice include:

• Flash card activities

• chart fill-in activities

• branching skills

• extensive feedback activities