Sunday, March 2, 2014

Chapter 7


Chapter 7


Focus Question: What are the standard and open-source software applications available on most computers?


Standard software applications are the basic, most standard software on computers for a particular field. In an office, it is most common to hear of Microsoft office suite, or Word Processing in order to type a document or other important information.


Open-source software would be an application like Adobe reader. It is pretty commonly installed on most computers, but it also has features that you may upgrade for a price, and must always install the updates to continue to use the software universally. Open source is exactly as it sounds- open to the public, but it is constantly evolving.















Tech Tool 7.1: It is important to integrate problem solving into the learning experience in the classrooms. A technological tool that would help enhance this experience for students is suggested in the Tech Tool 7.1, and one of the applications that seemed most interested was that of Scratch. It is an open source software, that students are able to engage in creating their own art, stories, and games. Students are able to use their own rules and creativity to develop these activities to help stimulate their own learning pace and problem solving skills.










Chapter 7 was immensely educational for myself. I did not know there was a difference between software's and classifications such as standard vs. open sourced. I also enjoyed playing computer games, and there was one game in particular that I remember playing on our Windows 95 computer, and it was through some kind of encyclopedia software. I do not remember the name, but I was able to guide a court jester through the different mazes to stop and learn about the many topics of my choice. I remember sitting for hours, listening to different audio clips or reading various articles on random subjects that I controlled.


Another game that comes to mind, that involved great problem solving skills was that of Oregon Trail. I remember in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade going into the computer lab and playing this game. Believe it or not, it is still around! Check out the official website!


http://www.oregontrail.com/hmh/site/oregontrail/










































Maloy, R. W., Verick-O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S. A., & Woolf, B. P. (2014). Transforming learning with new technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson

1 comment:

  1. Wow - you had some good experiences with early online gaming. I don't remember the name of that encyclopedia game (wonder if it was Britannica?) but I do recall its interactivity and for my generation, the use of audio and video on the computer was awesome due to its newness! :) But we've come a long way in that relatively short period of time! :)

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