Artifact 10

Context
I took some time to explore and review six different educational software programs, look for strengths, weaknesses, and objectives. I then used my findings to create a software database with the following categories: title, publisher, appropriate age level, description, objective, strengths, weaknesses, rating (1-5), and recommendation (yes or no). I entered each software program into the database and filled out the individual categories. I sorted the database by alphabet and then filtered it by ratings of five.

Impact
This activity could be very important in my classroom, especially with reviewing educational software. I could also use a database to review textbooks, websites, activities, fieldtrips, and art projects. My fellow coworkers could use a database to review classroom policies, discipline techniques, and hints for behavior management.

Alignment
The database of software evaluation aligns with competencies 10.6, 12.1, and 13.1. It meets with competency 13.1 because software adapts to a variety of students with varying learning styles. As a future elementary grades educator, it is important for me to be familiar with software dealing with a variety of subject areas. Educational software is an important tool in the classroom and at home, so I need to be able to inform myself, as well as the parents of students in my classroom about the most valuable programs.

Alignment with INTASC Stndards
This activity also aligns with INTASC Standard 9. When evaluating software or textbooks, educators must give their opinion of the software or textbook. A teacher should reflect about what is happening with the students, parents, as well as colleagues. Reflection is a process that should occur daily, questioning: What went well? What can be improved? What will I do differently next time? Will I even do this again? etc. Reflection is a major configuration for professional growth.