Aarron H. Doering and M.D. Roblyer, authors of Integrating
Educational Technology into Teaching claim that word processing has had the
greatest impact on the classroom as a technology resource (116, 2013). The
versatility of word processing allows teachers to approach using it many
different ways. One of the benefits of using Word Processing Software that is
improves the appearance of the product, “software tools help teachers and
students produce polished-looking materials that resemble the work of
professional designers” (113). This allows students to concentrate on the material
that they are studying and helps them develop technology skills.
An issue educators face is the question of when to introduce
children to word processing technology. While some educators feel that introducing
word processing too early will create children that are underdeveloped in
handwriting skills, some feel that it will encourage more expression skills
(120). Spreadsheet Software
Teachers primarily use spreadsheets to keep budgets and grades. The mathematic component of spreadsheets allows individuals to save time by quick calculations. The visual effect of seeing numbers change are said to impact individual motivation and interest in changing numbers (122, 123). The issue that arises when trying to get students to use spreadsheets derives from the common fear of math (125). Teachers should expose students to the software and allow students to explore the software in order to become familiar.
Presentation Software
The influence of presentation software in the classroom is
great because to aids teachers into having an interesting outline of their
presentations. It is claimed that “when teachers or students create a
presentation with this software, it helps them think through what they will say
and in what order” which therefore improves speaking and organization skills
(128). One of the impacts and issues with presentation software is when it is
for a collaboration project. While students gain collaboration skills needed to
be successful in the workforce it is important to maintain a work balance for
students that might not be as comfortable with the software.
Classroom UseIn my classroom I plan on using presentation software frequently. I wish to have accessible PowerPoints available to my students outside the classroom of the basic notes from the day’s assignment. In a literature class the PowerPoint would contain key points on theme, plot, setting, author, characters, and highlighted scenes. Students can print the PowerPoint presentation and make additional notes and they can also access the PowerPoint through tablets or other smart devices.
