Lesson 15: The Software as an Educational Resource

What is computer? Does it solely refer to television, monitor screen, the keyboard, the printer and CPU? Computers are more than that, it consists not only with these physical components (hardware) but it has programs or system that tells what the computer machine should do. This is called the software.

Two types of software:

1.      The system software. This is the operating system that is found or bundled inside all computer machines.

2.      The applications software. This contains the system that commands the particular task a particular problem.

 

·         a custom software that is made for specific tasks often by large corporations, or

·         a commercial software packaged for personal computers that helps with a variety of tasks such as writing papers, calculating numbers, drawing graphs, playing games, and so much more.

The Microsoft Windows

            Also referred to as a program, Microsoft Windows or Windows for short is an operating environment between the user and the computer operating system.  Also called a shell, it is a layer that creates the way the computer should work. Windows uses a colorful graphics interface called GUI that can be seen on the computer screen or monitor whenever the computer is turned on.

The user can work with on-screen pictures (icons) and suggestions (menus) to arrive at the desired software. Windows 95 (now improved with Windows 2003, 2007) is software designed for Microsoft Windows. Actually, Windows is in itself a self-contained operating system which provides:

a.       user- convenience

b.      a new look

c.       information center

d.      plug and play

Instructional software

            Instructional software can be visited on the internet or can be bought from software shops or dealers. The teacher through his school should decide on the best computer-based instruction (CBI) materials for the school resource collection. In evaluating, teachers must see to it that the method he/she uses in a computer-based instruction is appropriate so that they will come up with a sound and valid results. To achieve this, the following should be considered:

1.      Cautions in using CBI materials.

2.      Consider the relevance and worth of the material.

3.      Assess and evaluate materials based on sound basis.

4.      Evaluate design and content.

5.      See to it the information are accurate.

6.      Use up to date data.

7.      Use materials that are connected to the real-life situation of the students.

8.      Used materials that are free from biases.

Computer software offers various benefits to teachers and students. It has become one of the learning resources used by the teachers in class. Just like the reporters have done, they have used an application (text twist) to introduce their topic on hand. It had also helped them to set the classroom into a student-centered one. The game had motivated us to learn and participate with the discussion. The reporters have also provider significant study to further explain the benefits of software programs to the learning-teaching process. Their PowerPoint presentation also helped with the delivery of the lesson. It facilitated learning of concepts and ideas. Software programs are indeed very important to the teachers and students because it enhances the educative process.

Teachers must be cautions and vigilant before integrating computer software to instruction. He/she must consider every aspect like the content of the material. I have learned that a teacher must first assess and evaluate the material before implementing it to the class. Through this, the teacher can ensure if the material is useful and appropriate to the topic and to the students. As we use these different programs, we must also see to it that, it will not replace the role of the teacher and that it will not erase the importance of the non-electronic classroom activity. The program role is to support and enhance other non-electronic classroom activity and the teaching-learning process.

As a future teacher, before deciding on a particular program, I must first consider the needs and interests of the students, the appropriateness of the material to the topic and the relevance of the material in meeting the set goal and objectives. With this, I can ensure that the learning will not be affected but instead it will be effective. Assessment and evaluation will be a big help in doing so.