Using Software Tools in the Classroom. Why every teacher should!

Teachers, if you aren’t using software tools in your classroom already, you should be! If you want your life to run a little bit smoother, continue reading!

Word Processing Software

What is word processing software anyway? Ever heard of Microsoft Word? There are too many benefits to mention, but here a few. According to Roblyer (2010), Word processing can save you time (p. 114). Why rewrite your materials, when you can modify them, and let’s face it, teachers are constantly modifying all kinds of materials! Also, typed documents look more professional than handwritten notes, and allow for documentation. Now what did I write to Sally’s mother last week, and what day was that on??? Hmmm… if it was handwritten you are OUT of luck on figuring that out! There is a slight problem you need to consider when using word processing as an instructional strategy. “Research shows that word processing alone cannot improve the quality of student writing” (p. 115).  Students can become too dependent on technology. Does auto correct bring up a red flag? Word is a great motivator to get students to start writing more though, and that is always a great first step!

Spreadsheet Software

Spreadsheets scare me a little bit, which is kind of hilarious because I love to organize everything under the sun.  Spreadsheets can help you organize attendance to grades, with a whole lot in between! Spreadsheets will help you stay on track in the classroom! When using them with students, “Spreadsheets help people visualize the impact of changes in numbers” (Roblyer, 2010, p. 121). Make math more fun by introducing a new way to look at numbers! One thing you should look out for is that spreadsheets are less straightforward than Word and this might pose a problem for some of your students.

Presentation Software

I love a GOOD PowerPoint, don’t you? Notice I emphasized the word good, because there are some really horrible ones out there. When used correctly, presentation software can greatly enhance your lesson as well as teach your students how to correctly present information, “its emphasis on sequencing and breaking information into component parts can promote a more organized approach” (Roblyer, 2010, p. 127). A problem you might run into is “the overuse or improper use of bullets and lists [that] can cause problems for learners as they process the information they are hearing (p. 127). If there is one thing you take away from this blog about presentation software, it’s this, keep it simple silly!

Classroom Use- Chosen Software

While I plan on using all three tools in the classroom, word processing will be the tool I use the most, simply because there are just so many ways to use it. My personal favorite tool to use is Google Docs in Google Drive, because of its fantastic ability for collaboration. Students share one document at the same time, allowing for easier collaboration within groups. I also love the use of the cloud. There is no need to worry about my students losing their work, and I will have access to their documents for assessment purposes throughout the process as well as the ability to answer questions, give feedback and send encouragement. Want to learn more? Check it out! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WWu8kN51Gw

Roblyer, M. D. (2010). Integrating educational technology into teaching

 (7^th ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill.