Journal Post 7

Chapter 7

Problem Solving and Inquiry Learning with Software and Web Tools

What are the standard software applications found on most computers today and what open source software alternatives are there?  

                Various types of computer software are used to simplify the operations and applications of computer programs. There are two main types of software. System software is responsible for the overall functioning and control of a computer. It includes the operating system, network operating system, database managers, and TP monitor. Application software performs specific functions in specialized ways to produce a variety of services, including word processing, databases, spreadsheets, slides and presentations, internet browsing, email management, movie making or DVD burning to name a few. You will recognize many of these programs by their commercial name: Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Adobe, Photoshop, Internet Explorer and Norton Antivirus.

Photo credit to Ohrizon. 

Here are a couple standard software applications more in-depth that are most likely found on your computer:

-          Word processing software enables writers to enter data into a word processing document. They have long replaced typewriters and even handwritten letters. It also allows users to create digital documents that can be drafted, edited, and shared electronically.

-          Web browsing software allows computers to visit favorite website or search for new information online. Popular browsers include Internet Explorer, Google Chrome and Safari.

-          Presentation software like PowerPoint gives computer users creative ways to construct digital slideshows and other displays that incorporate text, sound, voice, and pictorial images.

-          Antivirus software scans a computer for malicious programs that deliberately interfere with its operation. A virus can spread when one computer communicates with another computer, much like humans catch a cold or viral infections. Antivirus is an essential tool to protect your computer against the constant threat of these potentially dangerous programs.

Open source software is “open” for the public to use, copy, and recreate, usually at little or no cost. Profit-making companies develope much of the software for computers today because it's reliable and easy to modify.  Organizations deliberately make the source codes available free to users and software developers with the idea that new and improved applications will emerge, thereby stimulating innovations within a wider community. Some technology educators consider open source software to be safer to run on computers because it is more secure in terms of privacy.

Squeak Etoys

              Squeak Etoys is an open source with free downloadable software program that supports inquiry learning and problem solving for elementary and middle school students. It has become a colorful, kid-friendly development environment with strong multi-media capabilities. It teaches students how to model things with math, logic, and merge that skill with creativity. Etoys is great for modeling things quickly and easily!

Summary

              Chapter seven overviews how educational software supports and promotes problem solving and inquiry learning for students from kindergarten to twelfth grade. The chapter also discusses different kinds of educational software, from open source materials to commercially produced programs. The last section introduces intelligent tutoring systems as emerging instructional options for teachers, specifically math and science education.