Artifact 4

There is a lot of educational software available, but as a teacher we must review and evaluate them to be sure they are appropriate for our classroom.

Context

A review of Strategy Challenges of the World Collection 1: Around the World was done to determine if it would be appropriate for the students in my classroom. In order to best grasp what the game was attempting to teach, the games had to be played with great consideration.

Impact

A software evaluation allows the teacher to better understand the educational software available to them for their classroom. It is important for teachers to know what they are bringing into their classroom for their students. Doing this evaluation better equips teachers to do more in the future.

Alignment

Teaching is a continual learning process. Software evaluations, such as this one, allows teachers to be a reflective practitioner who continually evaluates the effects of his/her choices and actions on others and who actively seeks out opportunities to grow professionally (INTASC 9). Finding and evaluating technology resources are an important part of being a teacher, and this software evaluation gives teachers practice (technology competencies II B & II C). Continually evaluating and reflecting on professional practice to make informed decisions regarding the use of technology in support of student learning (tech. comp. V B) is a key component to doing a software evaluation.