Sunday, September 21, 2008

Software Selection Form Reflection

At PAVCS we do not use Software Selection Forms because we don’t purchase software often. All student materials are purchased through a company called K12 Inc. They also send our student at the time of enrollment a computer with standard programs already installed, such as Microsoft Office and Internet Explorer.

Technology is already integrated throughout our curriculum. In science and history students are exploring the web and watching video clips. To help increase math and language skills our 2nd through 12th graders use Study Island for at least 20 minutes a day.
Over the summer our faculty had a profession development day on how to use Study Island effectively with our class.

I feel that that the Software Selection Form would be very beneficial. Purchasing software for an entire school or even just a classroom can be very costly. By following the form and taking a closer look at the software you can make sure it meets all of your needs. I like the table where a teacher would evaluate the program to see how effective it is. Technology is a great tool if you know how to use it. This form would allow you to research and use the program before making an investment.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

I completely agree with you that technology is a great tool when used properly. I think more school districts should take the time to investigate the software before it is purchased. Why spend the money on software if it is not going to help the students succeed? I teach science and social studies and I am always looking for ways to integrate technology. Sometimes it is challenging because I only have 5 computers in my classroom but this year I am trying to integrate technology more often. Because my school district does not ask for input regarding software purchases, I've found several free activities that students can do online.

Ahmed Alahmari said...

I agree with you that use of the software selection form avoids a lot of material losses. This form also helps schools administrators to know the needs of teachers. With the software selection form teachers will have the ability to identify and evaluate programs that will be used. I completely agree with you that the use of technology in education improves the performance of students and helps them to enjoy learning