Artifact 5

In my Math Methods class at Appalachian State University, I had to evaluate an educational computer program that can be used in the classroom. I chose Math Munchers Deluxe that can be used on both Macintosh and Windows 95. I reviewed the software, found the strengths and weaknesses of the program, figured out the range in grade levels of who this program is suitable for, I then rated this program and browsed the Internet using the search engine, google, to find reviews from other teachers, parents, and students on Math Munchers Deluxe.

Impact:

As a teacher, I would use this program as extra practice for students to learn and understand his or her math facts. This program is a great way to get your students comfortable to new material and allow them to gain a better understanding of the concept. I will continue to evaluate different software programs to make sure it is suitable for my classroom. I found this to be a great way to become aware of the games and programs that your students will be playing.

Alignment:

The software evaluation is a great way to find programs that will be able to reinforce and use as practice after teaching a new lesson or concept. Finding reviews on the programs that you are evaluating will also help you become more aware of the program and what other teachers have found to be very affective software programs that could possibly assist you in a lesson (Tech. Comp. II B). The software evaluation is a great way to evaluate the programs that your students are using in classroom. The evaluation also helps you become informed on extra techniques that might help your students grasp a concept and give you additional ideas on alternative teaching strategies. The software evaluation helps you as a teacher become more involved and informed with what your students enjoy and if you can incorporate software programs into your guided practice it will make your students more excited about learning (Tech. Comp. V B).

The software evaluation helps teachers become aware of software programs that might be used as a helping aid with his or her diverse learners. Using technology in the classroom is a different approach to learning and it can be very successful with some students who may not understand the concept using a more traditional method (INTASC 3).