Software evaluation tools

Software evaluation tools are key components, in my opinion that help to make sure programs and certain type of education activities are full proof. The 5 things that I think are important to keep in mind are these: Site license, installation, standards, active learning, hardware compatibility. Some people may not think it would be a hassle but their are some programs that haven't been known for their status that you need a license to keep from being billed by the admin or caught for using their information. I personally think its stupid having to pay for an educational activity like that or needing a license to do that. It's own step-by-step manual on how to install it would be nice as well. I have had some gaming programs (even though they are gaming programs) i have had some that didn't tell me the whole picture and didn't install all the way. Standards of the program are on a need to know asap basis. I want to know if the the program I am using is well known or has many other teachers referrals behind it. The number one aspect that needs to be known and tested is if the teachers and students will have fun learning from it. Active learning is a key for a child in kindergarten to learn. The last thing that is important is the software's compatibility. It ties along with installment somewhat, but I shouldn't have to worry about updating the software for the program to work, that is too much, plus how do I know if the program is worth that much.

Educational games- Engage the learner in something other than paper work. They don't even have to be on a PC.

Simulations- Have students go through physical model environments and point out things they remember from the lesson previously.

Special needs- Have certain activities for children that need more attention for their learning process.

Digital Tools

I'm not much of a fan of being to obsessed with technology to teach a child new tricks. I know many of you would say that back then we didn't have what we have today but the fact stands for itself sometimes technology cannot be relied on to teach a child.

I suppose though if i really wanted to think about it the 5 types of digital tools i would use would be as follows: e-books, flat-bed scanner, graphic tablets, head phones, touch screen. An e-book though its more of a college students material to use, in my view it would help a student keep track of their stories their on, and provide a bit of a explanation about the story they are reading. A flat-bed scanner some teachers would classify as a life saver. I remember my elementary teachers used as a last minute home copier just in case they forgot to in the night before or morning of they could get it done real quick. Graphic tablets would probably work fairly well for math lessons. Head phones when i was in school worked well for students when they wanted to focus by themselves on homework assignments or listen to lessons. Now the one piece of technology that i would use in my class that i would question its effectiveness is the computer touch screen. I didn't use it when i was school but i would still use it because it has been ranked to useful. I'd use it as a special needs asset. I could see many special needs students getting a kick out of touching characters or playing an educational game on it.