Instructional Software

Instructional software as defined in our Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching book, are computer programs designed specifically to deliver instruction or assist with the delivery of instruction on a topic. Using educational software in the classroom can help students who are struggling in certain areas of study. Instructional software is a bonus to students and it gives them hands on and knowledge of technology. The book speaks of 5 different types of Instructional Software which are: Drill and Practice, Tutorial, Simulation, Instructional Game, and Problem Solving.
Drill and Practice allows students to work problems and receive immediate feedback on the correctness of their answers. A great example of Drill and Practice can be found on http://www.schoolzone.com/best-kids/flash-cards?gclid=CKv7ivixtrUCFQmxnQodISUA0w . This website allows students in grades k-6 to create flashcards that cater to their own learning styles dealing with spelling reading and math.
Tutorial Software is an instructional sequence on a specific topic, similar to that of a teaching style. An example of this can be found at http://www.abcmouse.com/landing/SEM:GOOG?gclid=COPdke6ztrUCFQsFnQodriEA_w
Simulation Software is teaches how a system works using computerized models that can be real or imaginary. Here students can choose the activities they want to do in any order. An example of simulation software can be found here http://peanuts.wikia.com/wiki/It's_the_Big_Game,_Charlie_Brown . Students are able to experience real-life situations in decision making.
Instructional Games are games that combine fun, education, gaming, and technology into one. Here student will encounter game-like rules, or competition in learning activities. http://www.reader-rabbit.com/ Reader Rabbit is designed to help students with basic reading skills.
Problem Solving Software is designed mainly for problem solving. Students focus on their problem solving abilities in various content area. http://www.superkids.com/aweb/pages/reviews/problem/07/kapu_cave/merge.shtml This website gives you examples of problem-solving software that challenges students to solve mysteries in a 3-dimensional world.

Roblyer, M. D., & Doering, A. H. (2013). Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching (6th ed., pp. 78-99). Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.