Educational software plays an important role in today’s classroom or learning environment. This software encompasses a number of different types and formats including but not limited to online tutorials, drill-and-practice sites, simulations, and games. In evaluating the use of educational software, we ask ourselves what advantage the use of the technology gives versus more traditional methods. This is known as the relative advantage. Virvou, Katsionis & Manos (2005) point out that when evaluating the advantage of educational software, we should not view it as a replacement for traditional methods but rather as a supplement.
Perhaps the most obvious relative advantage provided by educational software is that software can provide learning opportunities that might not be available because of logistics and costs. Murray, Blessing, and Ainsworth (2003) address this issue regarding computerized simulations, stating, “the natural system may not be available in the school because the system itself or the measuring equipment required is too expensive or otherwise unavailable” (p. 2). In a similar way, virtual field trips allow students to experience places first hand that would be inaccessible because of distance and expense.
Another relative advantage of educational software is the immediate assessment and feedback that it can provide. Students can practice their skills through formats such as drill and practice software in which they can get immediate results without relying on the instructor to “grade” the work. This also allows students to practice their skills over and over with no wait period. This helps provide solid reinforcement in the learning process.
Lastly, educational software offers a relative advantage in the fact that it provides an exciting and motivating learning platform for students. The learning process can be difficult and requires a great deal of effort. Because of this, a lot of motivation is required (Virvou et al., 2005). According to these authors, “computer games technology could be used to render educational software more motivating and engaging. In this respect, the difficult process of learning could become more amusing” (Virvou et al., 2005 p. 54).
These are just a few of the relative advantages provided by educational software. Once again, educators should not view these tools as a replacement for more traditional instruction but instead as a supplement that can vastly improve the learning experience for students. It is important to consider the relative advantage of any technology tool before using in order to determine if the advantage provided justifies its use.
Evaluating Educational Software - http://arlington.k12.va.us/cms/lib2/VA01000586/Centricity/Domain/3914/evaluate%20software.pdf
Quizlet online flashcards and games -
References
Murray, T., Blessing, S., & Ainsworth, S. (2003, December 31). Authoring tools for advanced technology learning environments: Toward cost-effective adaptive, interactive and intelligent educational software (T. Murray, S. Blessing, & S. Ainsworth). Springer.
Virvou, M., Katsionis, G., & Manos, K. (2005). Combining Software Games with Education: Evaluation of its Educational Effectiveness. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 8(2).
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