Choose one CAI software program and
post a statement on the Blog answering the following questions:
·
How does the software differentiate instruction
for different learning styles?
·
Does the software increase skills in knowledge
reinforcement, concept development, and or problem solving? How?
·
What is the name of the company that publishes
the software product?
· How
will you use this software in your own classroom? Why?
Kristen Corcoran
ReplyDeleteThe program I picked to research is Starfall.com
1)This software allows for varying types of learners because the program lets children explore by seeing, hearing, and manipulating the mouse to select correct answers. This software was designed to feel like play not rote assessment. Like most CAI programs, it allows children to work at their own pace until mastery.
2) This website increases skills in knowledge reinforcement, for example phonemic awareness and systematic phonics that children are already learning or have learned in school. The software increases skills in concept development through building vocabulary, enhancing fluency, and developing comprehension.
3) This software was created by Dr. Stephen Schutz and was published by Blue Mountain Arts publishing company.
4)This program can be used in the classroom in many ways. This can be used to fill down time. As a teacher if I am doing a small group instruction the other children can participate in this early reading program. It can be used after a phonics lesson to reinforce the lesson and gauge their understanding. It can also be used as a learning center in itself. It gives feedback to the teacher and allows fro children to meet learning mile markers before moving on.
I can see where this software could be fun for the students, creating an environment that is not only academically useful, but fun too. This would definitely increase student comprehension and development. This software, like others I've read about, are important pieces to the learning process for students, but since I do not work with children on a regular basis or a classroom like some of my classmates, I have a tough time trying to visualize the process. I am going to be working in adult learning and development, so these programs are not as familiar to me.
DeleteKristen,
DeleteStarfall is a great program for beginning learners. As a matter of fact, I wanted to write about it because it has always been one of my go to sites when I tutor younger students. I recently discovered a phonics app called Skyfish Phonics. If you get the opportunity try it out and let me know what you think about it.
I agree with Tamika. As students enter school, they use to improve their reading skills. It reminds me of Reader Rabbit or LeapFrog.
DeleteKathryn R. Young
ReplyDeleteCAI Software Program: Compass Learning Odyssey
This particular software program differentiates instruction by enhancing the skill development for children with limited reading skills. By encouraging active collaboration and engagement, this software helps to develop improved writing and listening skills for minority students by integrating comprehension exercises that focus on sequencing, identifying the main idea, and other important factors. In this way, the software improves the problem solving abilities and aids in the other reading challenges shared by minority and under developed readers.
Compass Learning is the company that publishes the software, and they are in Austin, Texas.
My curriculum would not probably utilize software such as this, as I aim to work with adults in adult learning and development; however, this software, as used in this article - at Nathan Hale elementary, would be beneficial to students who do not have the access to computers and textbooks and/or the more sophisticated technological equipment afforded to other schools that are more well funded. I believe research shows that students who attend less funded schools and live in school districts that are economically disenfranchised do not excel academically, creating those reading barriers that create needs for materials such as this.
Was this software created specifically for minority students? Is there research to suppose the benefits of minority students using the software? This is a great CAI software since it provides students with the opportunity for continuing education without computers and text books.
DeleteSha Star Jordan
This is a nice piece of software because it concentrates specifically on developing literacy and reading comprehension -- even in college-level students, reading comprehension can sometimes be lackluster. It's great to help students become good readers beforehand if possible.
Delete1. The software differentiates instruction because students can work cooperatively, discuss, and collobrate to find answers. They follow lessons that are thematic and follow the same pattern but learning targets are set for each individual student. The CAI software allows for cooperative learning and flexible grouping but the mastery is set to 70% but the teacher can alter the mastery level depending on the student. So the process/instruction but evaluation is differentiated for each student.
ReplyDelete2. As shown by the research a median score of +.19 was seen in elementary students and +.16 for middle and high school students. The CAI software was shown to be more effective than traditional teaching methods. Students grasped knowledge and concept formation following the patterned lessons and were able to solve problems with fellow students.
3. The CAI software is called Compass Learning. The program was called Compass Learning Odyssey Reading which focused on writing and listening.
4. This CAI software would be beneficial to my 9th grade world history inclusion classroom. Differentiation is mandated especially for IEP and 504 plan students. Having a software, considering I have access to computer labs, would increase student achievement. Also the district serves students with limited computer availability so having them learn with technology will help them in the future.
Hi Erin,
DeleteDoes the software have specific history lessons? Or would it help your students by improving their reading skills across all subjects?
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteThis seems like an excellent CAI because it allows the teacher to structure some setting based on their knowledge of their students abilities. Do you know any districts that uses this CAI? How often would you use this CAI?
DeleteSha Star Jordan
Carolynn Heim
ReplyDelete1. The CAI software program that I chose is ALEKS. ALEKS is a mathematics computer aided program that helps students learn through different modules, and math questions pertaining to their math ability. The program differentiates instruction for different learning styles based on how well the student answers questions within the program. For example, if a student keeps getting a certain math problem wrong, even though it is a different problem. ALEKS will go over the problem with steps/hints until the question is answered correctly. The program will then move onto a different type of math problem, and base the students answer on what question will be asked next.
2. The software increases skills in knowledge by asking questions based on students answers. These questions get harder based on their responses. This program also increases skills in reinforcement through asking the same types of questions, which uses concept development to advance students learning through problem solving.
3. The name of the company that publishes the software product is McGrawHill Education.
4. I would use this software in my own classroom by teaching a math lesson, and then having the students reinforce their knowledge on the computer. When the students use this program to complete additional questions, it will help them to better understand what we just went over in class.
I like this CAI. Does this software provide audio, where students who lack reading ability are able to get the question read to them? Do you think this CAI takes into consideration that some students may continuously get the wrong answer and then what happens...does the software just continue to lower the student's level
DeleteSha Star Jordan
Sha Star Jordan,
DeleteThis program does provide audio for students who need questions read to them. I do believe that the program takes students answers into consideration because the questions provide more support within every question.
Student: Kimberly Springer
DeleteI am familar with this program being used at higher education institutions. It is primarily used in the remedial level math courses at Kent State University.
Hi Carolynn, Does the math program cover all types of math? Or is it for basic math like addition/subtraction?
ReplyDeleteJillian,
DeleteThe program does cover all types of math. It covers math from the elementary level, and some college courses also.
The CAI software program that I chose and have been using in my classroom is TypingWeb. TypingWeb is a free online typing tutor & keyboarding tutorial for typists of all skill levels. TypingWeb includes entertaining typing games, typing tests, and free official typing certification. Once as student rosters have been uploaded and usernames and passwords have been assigned, students can begin working. There are different courses already built into TypingWeb and each course has different and each lesson has different exercises. For example, the first course, first lesson, first exercise focuses on the "home row" and specifically the "f" and "J" keys. While the students are typing, the can see a virtual keyboard and the fingers they are supposed to use in the exercise. In addition, the students are timed, their speed is recorded as well as their accuracy. After the lesson has completed a exercise summary is given that records problem keys and lesson progress and words of encouragement are given.Students can work individually at their own pace or compete with each other in typing games the website embeds in its lessons as well.
ReplyDeleteStudents can actively choose any lesson they want, however, I can see the progress, or lack their of, that they make in real time. I am given a spread sheet of lessons and exercises performed that day by all students. I can even look individually at each student to monitor progress and aptitude.
FTW Innovations is the company that produces TypingWeb
I actively use this program already. I introduce typing as one of the most important skills one can possess and cheating while typing (using only one finger, incorrest fingers, looking at the keyboard, not putting forth effort, etc), is only hurting yourself. Learning to type and type well, increases efficiency. I tell them it's easy to cheat and complete early typing exercises, but once they have to copy stories and do longer timed lessons, they will wish they hadn't cheated, especially when they have papers due in school.
I create student accounts from my roster and assign usernames and passwords. I give them goals and watch in real time as they strive to achieve them. After a week of working, I look at the weekly progress and assign grades based off: progress, accuracy, speed, and exercises completed. There are even typing tests the students take as a summative assessment for a course. I based midterms off those assessments.
This is really great, thanks for sharing about TypingWeb. It sounds miles more interesting than my boring typing class in high school. What grade are your students? It seems that knowing your way around a computer is so important at an early age now.
DeleteThis is a really excellent resource -- I poked through the website and even tried a couple of the games, and it's astounding that something like this is free considering the quality that it is. With this sort of resource available, no one really should have a good excuse for not learning to type well.
DeleteWe are working on using Typingweb.com in our district. It is so important that students learn keyboarding skills, with PARCC and other online assessments coming for our elementary students.
DeleteImagine learning is a Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI) program that I use at a Title One school in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD). This program differentiates English Language Arts instruction through progress monitoring and student performance. For example, if a student is not reading a letter correctly into the microphone, the computer system will recognize this and continue working on this same skill until the student is ready to move on. Based on student’s performance during the program, the software will place a student in the next skill level or keep them on the same lesson.
ReplyDeleteFor students that do not know how to navigate through a computer program, lights indicate where a student is supposed to click and verbal and written directions are provided simultaneously during the lesson.
The program reinforces skill development and problem solving through repetition of skills and practice of skills. For example, the student may read a story and then answer comprehension questions related to the story. Students then re-read the story and may answer text style questions. In addition, the instructor is provided supplemental material to give to students. This material can be used as homework or as additional instructional material for the classroom.
Imagine learning is developed and published by Imagine Learning, Inc. CMSD teachers are required to allot 200 minutes of Imagine Learning instruction per week. This information is logged and student progress is closely monitored. I would use this software in my classroom as reinforcement of a skill taught in the classroom. After working on identifying letters, the students would use Imagine Learning as a maintenance tool and a progress-monitoring tool. The program will help me identify students that can move onto the next skill and those students that needs extra instruction on a skill.
-Lisa Kisling
The program I picked is called Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing. I know it’s an unconventional choice, but I used this program to learn to type properly early in high school and found it to be extremely effective. I would highly recommend use of this program to anyone who wants to learn to type quickly and accurately.
ReplyDelete1: How does the software differentiate instruction for different learning styles?
Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing uses a variety of different methods of instruction in order to teach students how to type properly. First, the software establishes fundamentals, including the approximate position of each key on the keyboard as well as the proper finger with which each key ought to be pressed. It introduces words which are easy to type with a single hand (such as “was”) before moving on to more complex words which require the use of both hands to type properly and quickly. Additionally, the program uses repetition (drilling or practicing) as well as demonstration and presentation to build both typing fundamentals and more complicated typing techniques.
One hallmark of the Mavis Beacon program is its use of simple but visually interesting and challenging games in order to boost typing skill and especially speed. These games serve to make the program more interesting for younger typists as well. However, Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing can tailor itself to anyone from middle school students to senior citizens.
2: Does the program increase skills in knowledge reinforcement, concept development, and/or problem solving? How?
The main problem to be solved by the program is that which is created when someone does not know how to type properly (and thus utilizes an awkward and/or slow form of typing). Learning how to type quickly and accurately is a seminal life skill, especially in an increasingly tech-dependent society.
Additionally, Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing can also teach typing with either the right or left hand only, making it an invaluable resource either for those who are learning to type with only one hand or those who have recently lost the use of a hand and must re-learn typing.
The program develops a variety of different concepts, all of which are related to and centered on how to type accurately and quickly using good technique. These include using the proper fingers to press certain keys as well as good posture.
Finally, Mavis Beacon continually reinforces knowledge by drilling the student over and over again with quizzes, tests, and games. Since good typing is largely based on muscle memory, drilling is essential for knowledge reinforcement.
3: What is the name of the company that publishes the software product?
Broderbund, which publishes a fairly wide array of different software, owns the Mavis Beacon name and publishes Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing. Broderbund is owned by Encore Software.
4: How will you use this software in your own classroom? Why?
Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing is a strongly individual-oriented piece of software. Nevertheless, many of the exercises which are presented by the software can also be presented by themselves as a form of classroom instruction. I would be very interested in having students learn to type properly at a high school level; at a college level and beyond, many students are hampered, both academically and in their daily lives, by an extremely low typing speed or the inability to type properly. Additionally, poor typing technique can lead to back strain or carpal tunnel syndrome, which are physically detrimental to those same students. Knowing how to type properly is an essential component to computer literacy in general, and a huge portion of our students are slow, inaccurate typists.
The exercises would be best conducted in a lab setting with individual computers for each student. Some exercises can be displayed on an overhead projector or smartboard.
Jacob, I love your idea sometimes we have to be unconventional. I believe that typing skills are especially essential for high school students, because the writing becomes more frequent and post-secondary schools you can not live without adequate typing skills. Seeing that I intend to work in an urban school individual computers may not be available so I like the fact that your choice provides multiple means of incorporating technology into the activities by being able to show some exercises on a smartboard or overhead projector.
DeleteJacob,
DeleteWhen I was in elementary school I used the Mavis Beacon program in my computer class. I really enjoyed this program, and it helped me a lot in my typing abilities. I agree that it's a program that people at every age can use. If more people knew about the program do you think the program could be used in more of a public setting, instead of just schools?
Software- Rosetta Stone
ReplyDeleteThe software differentiates instruction by allowing students to work at their own pace, on particular problem areas for them. They can work outside the classroom on their own time, working through difficulties we have identified in class. My future ESL students will come from all over the world and have learned English differently. Some may have trouble with grammar, others with memorizing vocabulary. Rosetta Stone will allow them to study at their own pace and reinforce language skills. The software promotes knowledge reinforcement by providing help with pronunciation, providing immediate feedback if a student makes a mistake. Rosetta Stone also has readings, games and a student can even practice conversation with others learning the same language.
I would use this in my classroom as a supplement to regular classes, as the general goal of ESLs is to become communicative. If the classroom I am working in has computers, then the software could be used in class for additional activities, allowing students to work on problem areas but also being able to ask the teacher for help if needed. Rosetta Stone will reinforce vocabulary, pronunciation, reading comprehension and grammar rules.
I would love to use Rosetta Stone in my classroom. We have a block during the day for support/enrichment, and my kids have expressed a desire to learn a foreign language. Is there a free version available?
DeleteJillian,
DeleteRosetta Stone is a great program to use in an ESL classroom. This is a great way for students to learn English when they are new to a classroom, or have even been in the classroom for sometime. I have never used Rosetta Stone. Does the program have activities that could be implemented into the classroom for students?
Marc, I don't think there's a free version, I did a short demo on the website to see how it works.
DeleteCarolynn, it does have activities, like reading passages and comp questions that could be read and solved together, but I believe it's mostly for individual uses.
The CAI that I have chosen in READ 180. Read 180 is a blended format instructional program for grades 4-12, that includes adaptive online instructional software. The Read 180 software provides individualized learning paths for each student. The program helps develop and reinforce knowledge in the areas of reading, writing, spelling, grammar, and vocabulary by providing students with rich grade level texts and ensuring that students use close reading by including and abundance of text based short answer questions. Student progress is closely monitored and students are able to monitor their own progress and take ownership for their learning. The instructional software also allows teachers to access data and tailor whole group and small group instruction accordingly. Professional development is also provided online for teachers to better utilize the program and assist students. The program is published by Scholastic Inc.
ReplyDeleteI would partner with my principal and same grade level teachers to implement this program for students who are below grade level or have low proficiency. It can also be tied to other subject curriculum because 97% of the text that is used in Read 180 is non-fiction. I would choose this program because it has been shown to be effective in improving the reading achievement in multiple studies. I also like that the CAI is not a stand alone product and it is tied in to an instructional program using the same texts and question formats.
Oni, I like your program choice it increases reading skills and reading improvement is crucial. The fact that you mention that 97% of the text is non-fiction caught my attention. You also highlighted that the program can be tied to other subject curriculum. Do you think that by the stories being 97% non-fiction the may also promote reading for pleasure.
DeleteSha Star Jordan
ReplyDeleteThe CAI software I chose was Accelerated Reader (AR). This reading software was a technique to encourage children to read more books. Accelerated Reader is a software used to monitor the practice of reading. There are two versions of the software: a desktop version and a web-based version. This software differentiates instruction for different learning styles by providing students with various levels to achieve academic goals. Students are able to work within their individual reading level. Accelerated Reader increases students’ ability in reading skills. AR provides students with the opportunity to transfer critical thinking skills, measures students’ comprehension, and promotes competency. The quiz data helps to monitor students’ comprehension of the text, which provides the educator with the information needed to better guide instruction. Students are also given opportunities to apply the skills taught during lessons and apply them during this reading practice time. The name of the company that publishes the software product is Renaissance Learning, Inc. This software could be used in my classroom to provide students with the opportunity to apply their reading skills. Students will be required to read three books where instruction is provided through the AR software. Students will receive in class time to complete the AR requirements. I would use this as a method to determine what strategies need to be taught to advance students’ reading abilities because it will prepared them for the completion of the Ohio Achievement Assessment.
Sha Star,
DeleteI found your choice of software program interesting because it aids in guiding instruction, it provides quizzes and exercises that serve as assessments to inform instruction. You highlighted the connection between reading abilities and being prepared for State assessments.
I absolutely love AR. I was saddened to learn that my school district does not have AR. Many people feel that Accelerated Reader program takes away the authenticity of creating a true love for reading. Many experts will argue that this program forces reading and many students simply read to answer the quiz questions. What are your thoughts about this?
DeleteThe software that I have chosen to profile is IXL. It is primarily used for skills practice. My school uses the math version of this software, and is considering purchasing the reading version.
ReplyDelete• This software differentiates skills by scaffolding them through learning modules. Typically, a mini-unit will consist of a module which introduces a new skill and references previously taught skills, modules which allow for practice and modules that build upon the new skill. Students can repeat modules if they are having difficulty mastering skills, and not all students need to be working on the same module at the same time. Questions can be delivered verbally for students who are not necessarily visual learners. Due to the limitations of computer software in general, it does not really address kinesthetic or interpersonal learners, however the same skills are presented in multiple ways to reach as many different types of learners as possible.
• Skills are organized based on grade level standards. Students may practice specific skills whether or not they correspond to the student’s actual grade level. In addition, skills are taught in progressive modules that scaffold instruction, and become increasingly complex and difficult as students move through them. Concepts are often developed over the course of several modules. Rationales are provided for both correctly and incorrectly answered questions, and the software automatically increases the number of questions necessary for passage when students are struggling.
• This software is published by IXL.
• I have used the math version of IXL in afterschool and Saturday Academy reinforcement settings. Being a humanities teacher, I found it helpful in assisting students who were struggling, particularly because I do not have a background in mathematics instruction. I hope to preview the reading version of IXL this year, and if it seems as though it would be useful, and if the school is willing to approve the expenditure, I think that it could be useful as NGA prep, as well as support for lower-level readers.
CAI Software Program: The Compass Learning Odyssey Reading Program
ReplyDeletePublished by: Compass Learning
This program integrates differentiated instruction by using writing and listening activities to increase reading skills and reading achievement to low achieving minority readers. The program activities increase skills in knowledge reinforcement by proving exercises that emphasize the student finding the main idea. The program increases skills in concept development by exercises that focus on the sequence of the story. Additionally the software increases skills in problem solving by providing opportunities to make prediction about the story.
My future goal is to work in an urban school here in Cleveland. This program can be useful in my classroom to improve the reading skills of my students. The activities support increasing reading skills, the collaboration offer students the opportunity for social interaction while involved in the learning process. The activities give students opportunities for discussions, feedback and reflection.
The app that I would like to introduce is Skyfish Phonics. Although, not a true software, this app allows the student to practice critical phonic skills that can be built upon to develop strong reading skills for students ages 4-6.
ReplyDeleteI recently came across an app that delivers phonics instruction to students ages 4-6. The program is differentiated by the student’s personal learning style. Hence, students progress at their individual learning pace.
The program is aligned to Common Core Standards. Offers a reading curriculum
that was created by educational experts, provides twenty levels of instruction,
while advancing at the learner’s level. All of this is provided in real time as the
games decrease and/or increase based on the learner’s answers.
The company that produced this app is Knowbility Inc. The Founder of the app is Nate Lipscomb. The curriculum architect is Donna Lipscomb. The child development expert is Shannon Lipscomb, Ph.D., and Jackson Lipscomb is the Jr. Game creator.
Although, I do teach Pre-K or Kindergarten, this app is a great resource for struggling Kindergarten students as well as emerging Pre-K students. This app can be downloaded on a classroom iPod or iPad and makes for a wonderful center activity. This technique would allow for additional practice that may not be offered at the student’s home. In addition, parents can have their student to practice key concepts at home.
Program Name: Measuring Up Live
ReplyDeleteThis is a test prep program for Math, Reading, and Science in grades 1-8. It includes test preparation and reinforcement for the new common core standards.
This program differentiates for different learning styles by offering a tool that will allow teachers to see specific areas that students are weak in or struggling with. This tool allows teachers to group students into small groups in order to meet specific needs or to assign extra practice in specific areas that the child needs help in. It offers a game based practice program or a simple question and answer mode. The program will offer extra help and reinforcement if the child is struggling.
This program increases skills in knowledge reinforcement by offering practice questions that the student will answer. If the student is having difficulty answering questions, the program will go through a review session in order to help the student better understand the concept. There are also some games in the program that are used as an incentive. If the child answers so many questions correctly, they get to play a game.
This is published by People’s Education.
I will use this in my classroom as a test preparation and review for the 8th graders before they take their Science standardized test in the spring. Because all students have areas of strength and weakness, this program will allow each student to work in the area that they need the most help in. For example, a student can spend time working in just the Earth Sciences and then they can focus on rocks and minerals or space if that is what they are struggling with.
Master the Facts: Multiplication
ReplyDeleteThe program is to reinforced multiplication. It can be used as drill and practice and show improvements.
This program differentiates for different learning styles by offering a tool that will allow teachers to see specific problems that students are struggling with and missing. So the teacher and student can focus on weak areas.
This program can be to used to master multiplication facts and improve areas where students are struggling.
This publish by Fast Rabbit Software.
I would use this software for students in class after I teach them fact family I would later allow them to go on the program to reinforce and give them practice.
Student: Kimberly Springer
ReplyDeleteSoftware: Where in the World is Carmen SanDiego?
How does the software differentiate instruction for different learning styles?
The software allows students to work at their own pace. They are able to save their progress and continue where they last worked. It also contains small videos and animation.
• Does the software increase skills in knowledge reinforcement, concept development, and or problem solving? How?
This software assists with problem solving. The students would have to make decisions based on the information presented in order to locate Carmen SanDiego. There are mini games, puzzles and short question and answer sessions.
• What is the name of the company that publishes the software product?
The Learning Company publishes this software. The first Carmen SanDiego game was released in 1983. There has been numerous versions and each one may focus on different aspects of social studies such as geography and history.
• How will you use this software in your own classroom? Why?
I will use this software, not as a primary source, but as a supplemental tool. I will use it in this way because the software may not be able to directly correlate to the lesson. The students are only able to complete the lessons in a chronological order. This order may or may not correlate with my lesson plans. They isn’t a way to pick and choose which sections of the software that can be used.
Student: Charla Malone
ReplyDeleteSoftware: i-Ready (Assessment and Instruction)
· How does the software differentiate instruction for different learning styles?
The software presents visually engaging lessons that are individually assigned based on student performance levels. The lessons features animation and sound effects that mimics video games that students are familiar with. There are also game breaks during assessments, where students to accumulate coins to purchase additional game breaks. The games are entertaining and were developed to keep students' attention while they work.
· Does the software increase skills in knowledge reinforcement, concept development, and or problem solving? The software presents lessons to students based on Common Core State Standards. There is direct instruction, modeling, and independent practice opportunities in each lesson.
· What is the name of the company that publishes the software product?
This software is published by Curriculum Associates.
· How will you use this software in your own classroom? Why?
Students will work in their i-Ready lessons in the computer center during lessons, as well as during computer lab time.