Instructional software can provide learning experiences not possible in a traditional classroom. Determining the relative advantage of educational software over traditional methods is important. Software can be used for drill and practice, tutorials, simulations, educational games, and applications. It should engage students, provide feedback, and have instructional value. Examples of useful software include math fact programs, simulations of historical events, and science tutorials. Teachers must evaluate software's ability to effectively support learning.

1. Image courtesy Wikimedia Commons
Instructional Software in a Fifth Grade Classroom
Janice Bezanson EDTECH 541
Spring 2011

2. Relative Advantage
The term Relative Advantage was coined by Everett Rogers and refers to “the degree to
which the new method or resources has advantages over the old one” (Doering & Roblyer,
2010, p. 429). Effective instructional software has the potential to provide learners
experiences that they would never have in a traditional brick and mortar classroom.
Engaged learning does not happen by chance. “It requires architectural engineering by
the instructor” (Conrad & Donaldson, 2004, p. 13). Determining the relative advantage of
educational software is a large part of the “architectural engineering” needed by today’s
classroom teacher.

3. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Today’s software can be used for:
Drill and Practice
Tutorials
Simulations
Education Games
Applications

4. Drill & Practice
Drill and practice software allows students to work out problems and gain immediate
feedback on correctness. Although sometimes called “drill & kill” this type of software
has advantages in today’s elementary classrooms. This software can take the place of
paper-pencil exercises and help learners prepare for tests. It is essential that the feedback
is quick and effective. Some of the areas that may benefit from drill and practice software
are:
Math facts
Typing skills
Vocabulary
Countries, states and capitals
(Doering & Roblyer, 2010, p. 77 - 81)
Drill & Practice Websites
Fact Monster -This site allows learners to use math flash cards and progress at their
own pace.
Kids Geo.com -This is a great site for learners to master states and capitals.

5. Tutorials
Tutorial software presents an entire instructional unit. This type of software would
include drill & practice components. The benefits include immediate feedback and it
offers instruction that can stand on its own. For it to be effective it should offer:
Extensive interactivity
Thorough user control
Appropriate pedagogy
Adequate answer judging and feedback
Appropriate graphics
Adequate record keeping
(Doering & Roblyer, 2010, p. 84 - 86)
Tutorial Web Site
Chem 4Kids! - This site offers a great instructional unit on chemistry.

6. Simulations
Simulations allow students to work through hypothetical problem situations and enables
them to see the impact of their actions. Simulations allow students to be involved in
complex processes while staying safe. For a simulation to be effective it should have
good documentation that explains system characteristics and uses as well as system
accuracy (Doering & Roblyer, 2010, p. 89).
Simulation Website
The Learning Company - This site offers links to both The Oregon Trail and Where in the
World is Carmen Sandiego? Both of these simulations offer young learners an imaginary
experience where they can see the impact of their decisions.

7. Educational Games
Educational Games can motivate learners to spend additional time on subjects. They offer
opportunities for content learning while having fun. These games challenge students to
compete and win. In order to be effective they must have:
Appealing formats and activities
Instructional value
Minimal Violence
Educational games should be used appropriately and involve all students. They can be
used effectively to teach students how to work in cooperative groups (Doering & Roblyer,
2010, p. 93).
Educational Game Websites
ABC Ya! - This website offers a wide variety of educational games that are geared for fifth
graders.
Just Kid Games - A site with educational games to help teach kids about math, science,
reading and the environment.

8. Applications
Software applications are designed to support tasks that are useful to a computer user
(Doering & Roblyer, 2010, p. 76). Applications used to be thought of as spreadsheets, word
processors and power point presentations. The world of technology has seen a boon in the
development of software applications. Many are useful in today’s classrooms.
Application Websites
Jing - This application allows students and teachers a unique way of collaborating.
Google Earth for Educators - This site has tutorials and tips on how to use google earth
applications in the classroom.
Google Apps - This link discusses google applications appropriate for use in K-12
classrooms.
Mac Apps - This link discusses Mac applications appropriate for use in K-12 classrooms.

9. Instructional Uses
Instructional uses of software don’t always fit neatly into just one category. There is often
overlap. Many offer opportunities for skill practice and exploration. Some offer
constructivist approaches to learning while others offer direct instruction.
It is important to determine the Relative Advantage of software to ensure that successful
learning is taking place in today’s twenty-first century classrooms.
The websites listed below can assist teachers in determining the relative advantage of
software.
Children’s Educational Softwares
Learning Point Associates
Super Kids

10. Resources
✤ References
Conrad, R. M., & Donaldson, J. A. (2010). Engaging the online learner, San Francisco: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Doering, A. H., & Roblyer, M. D. (2010). Integrating educational technology into teaching (5th ed.), United States of America:
Pearson Education Inc.
✤ Images
Wikimedia Commons