9. INTRODUCTION
Lesson 4 introduces the five categories
of instructional software, their specific
features, characteristics and
applications in education.
10. Understanding System
Software, Operating System
and Functions
System
software
-is a type of computer program that is designed to run a
computer's and application programs. the system
software is the interface between the hardware and user
applications.
Operating system (OS)
-is an example of system software. The OS manages all the
other programs on a computer. A computer's operating
system is one of the most important software’s because it
allows the different components of the computer, such as its
memory, disk storage devices and display output, to
function together while allowing the user to run
applications. Computers cannot function without the
Operating System.
11. There are two types of software.
They are the application software and
system software.
Application software
-consists of programs that perform
specific tasks for users, such as a word
processing program, e-mail program,
or Web browser.
System software
-consists of the programs that control
the operations of a computer and its
devices.
12. Instructional Software
-Instructional software is a computer program designed to assist in the
delivery of instruction. The primary purpose of instructional software is
to support teaching and learning.
Five Categories of Instructional
Software:
In educational application, instructional software comes
in five categories namely;
Tutorials
Simulations
drill-and-practice
educational games
exploratory environment
13. Tutorial - Let us begin with tutorial software. Traditionally, we
think of tutorial as a mode of instruction which involves a
teacher and one or two students. In tutorial approach, the
teacher normally begins with the presentation of information
or can move to demonstrate a skill. Then tutor starts to ask a
question and the student responds to a question or
demonstrates a skill. The tutor can provide feedback whether
or not the student gave the correct answer or demonstrated
the correct skill. Therefore, Today, there are commercially
available computer-based tutorials teachers may use to
reinforce students' understanding of some difficult concepts
and skills.
14. Simulations - A simulation is another type of instructional software.
Simulation software is designed so that the actions a student takes
within the simulated environment produce results similar to those
that would take place in the real-world. For example, children can
learn about properties of physical or biological objects through the
use of simulations. Teachers may use simulations to introduce a new
lesson in order to activate students previous knowledge about the
topic or after they been exposed to a new topic. A typical example of
simulation is the virtual dissection of a frog. Traditionally, dissection of
a frog in a biology is done with a live frog. Today, the simulation
instructional software on frog dissection took its place in some
schools. This shift is mainly due to environmental concern prohibiting
further killings of frogs.
15. Drill-and-Practice - Drill-and-practice instructional software is
commonly used to reinforce mastery of specific skills.
Traditionally, teachers make use of drill-and-practice activities
for students to gain mastery of specific content or skills. An
example of drill-and-practice software is Math Magic. In a
traditional teaching, drill-and-practice exercises particularly in
Mathematics are done using flash cards where the teacher
flashes them before the students. Today, this traditional
approach has shifted using drill-and-practice instructional
software.
16. Educational Games
Educational games are very popular among our students mainly
because this type of software challenges and excites them. Teachers
may use educational games in many ways. Like simulations, games
may activate prior and can spark learners' interest. A carefully
designed educational game should emphasize cooperation and
teamwork rather than competition. Today, games fascinate not only
the young but also our elders as well. There are hundreds of games
apps available in mobile technologies such as in cellular phones.
17. Exploratory Environment Software
Exploratory environment software is designed to provide
manageable and responsive computer-based worlds for learners to
explore and manipulate. This type of software offers elements for
learners to work with and a setting where manipulation of these
elements will enable them to explore a body of information or a rule
system. Exploratory environments present information but are not
directive like tutorials. There is a high degree of learner control,
active learning is anchored on realistic situations and experiences.
18. Advantages of Instructional Software
Promotes personalized learning
Increases students' motivation and
creativity
Provides extended learning
opportunities and practices
Addresses different learning styles
Provides virtual and simulated real-
life learning experiences have direct
control of their learning
Develops problem-solving skills
Encourages active learning
Fosters metacognition skills
20. Assign each group one type of instructional software:
1. Tutorial
2. Simulation
3. Instructional Gam es
Each group should:
4. Find an example of their assigned software type.
5. Explore its features and usability.
Groups should discuss:
How the software supports learning.
What subject or skill it teaches.
Its advantages and disadvantages.
21. Directions: Read the following questions and write your answer on 1 half sheet of
paper
I. Enumeration:
1. What are the 2 types of software?
2. What are the 5 categories of Instructional softwares?
II. Identification:
1. What type of instructional software focuses on reinforcing skills through
repetitive practice and feedback, often using quizzes or exercises?
2. Which category of instructional software provides step-by-step instructions or
lessons to teach new concepts or skills from scratch?
3. What kind of instructional software uses virtual environments to replicate real-
world processes or systems for the purpose of practice and exploration?
III. Essay: (5pts. Each)
1. How does instructional software benefit students and teachers?
2. What are some common challenges associated with using instructional software
in the classroom?
