Artifact # 9
Software Evaluation: This is an evaluation of a math software program.
Context:
I evaluated this piece of software in my class Elementary School Curriculum
and Instruction. The software I used was Math Blaster Mystery Pre-Algebra,
the Great Brain Robbery for Fifth grade and up. In this software students
must complete a series of problems ranging from easy to hard to complete
the game. After reviewing this software I created an evaluation including,
strengths and weaknesses, grade level, and content description.
Impact:
Since I have evaluated this software I know it would be a good way
for students to practice Pre-Algebra on the computer. Because of this I
would use this software in my classroom and have students use this during
computer time or free math time. Also since I now know how to evaluate
a piece of software, I will be able to determine which software would be
appropriate for classroom use.
Alignment:
The subject area of the software in this evaluation is math or specifically
Pre-Algebra. This tool reviews with students how to do Pre-Algebra
based problems (Tech Comp 11.3)
In this software there are problems ranging from easy to hard. Students may choose problems to solve that are on their level. Since students are working problems that are on their level, this satisfies (Tech Comp 13.1).
If there were students who had a learning disability, and could not
concentrate in a classroom setting, I would allow them to take this software
home to practice the problems of Pre-Algebra. These students work better
without distraction and would need this extra time to practice this work,
and this would support their needs (Tech Comp
13.2).