AboutLaura Expertise I can help with questions about research projects, literature, and writing for middle school and high school. I can also help with on-line resources and integration of technology in learning.
Experience I am a certified library media specialist and language arts teacher.
Education/Credentials MEd Instructional Technolgy- 1999 Arkansas Tech University
BA English- 1995 University of Central Arkansas
Expert: Laura Date: 4/7/2005 Subject: Computer software for elementary students
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Followup To
Question -
Currently, I am seeking the best software for elementary students. The list is extensive and I strongly believe that teacher experience combined with computer comfort would make the best evaluations. I am a software trainer. What is sucessful in computer labs?
Answer -
I am not exactly sure what you are asking. Could you clarify? Actually, could you answer the following:
*What age are your students? These are primary school students (6yrs - 12)
*What objectives are to be accomplished in the lab? (Scope included basic computer skills obtained while learning their language arts, math, history and sciences)
*Is this release time for teachers or based around lessons? (minimal, absorbed into their regular prep time)
*What kind of equipment is available.(Dell PIII 933Mhz w/256 Mb of RAM using Windows XP for some while many are on iMacs with OS9)
If you get me the answers to those questions, I'll see what I can come up with.
Laura
(I appreciate your input Laura, Thank you. Doris)
Answer Some tried and true programs that work with multiple age children, that have a lot of lesson plans availalbe, and work on both Mac and PC are:
Kidspiration- creativity/planning software
KidPix- art
AppleWorks- word process, spreadsheet, drawing, basic presentation
Hyperstudio- interactive presentation/basic game. Probably best for ages 8 and up
For Math, the Blaster series is good drill and practice. Graph Club is good for other applications
Type to Learn is a solid typing program.
Tom Snyder's Timeliner is outstanding for doing history projects.
In general, when computers are most successful, teacher teach what they would teach anyway, but have students do the work on computers. The software above is very good for integrating into the curriculum. If I could only have two, I would choose Appleworks and Kidspiration.
