My Software Evaluation project allowed me to chose and evaluate mathematics software to determine how beneficial the resource would be in the classroom.

During my Block Curriculum and Instruction course we investigated different software individually and submitted an argument stating the effectiveness of the software for children.

Software Evaluation provided me experience and criteria for evaluating software.This skill can be practiced at any point or with any subject while I am teaching.My written evaluation that I submitted to my professor can serve as a basis on which I can assist other teachers when purchasing or using software in the classroom.

The Software that I evaluated was Kid Pix Studio Deluxe.The first step that I took with the program was to review it and explore the goals and possibilities.Specific things that I looked for included: grade level, content description, instructional type such as tutorial, game, problem solving, etc., strengths and weaknesses and reviews.Looking at all these aspects is important when selecting teaching materials because teachers don’t just want technology being used in their classroom, but technology opportunities that are developmentally appropriate and support effective learning.(Technology Standard II. A)Teachers must take the time to review and evaluate materials before using them to ensure that they are appropriate for the students and serves a valid purpose.It may take time to find good software; however it will pay off when class time is used productively.(Technology Standard II. C)Not only should teachers rely on their own evaluation, but they should also expand their research on software and resources to include reviews of what other people thought.Reviews can help give additional insight regarding reasons for using or not using the material. (Technology Standard II. B)   Learning to evaluate software can be used in the future when deciding on the best use of technology in support of student learning.  I want my students to use technology as a part of learning, but I also want to ensure that their use of technology is of the best quality and significance. (Technology Standard V. B)