| Adventure |
The user solves problems/puzzles using the target language. Reading and
writing are the key skills. Examples: "Who is Oscar Lake" or the "Carmen
Sandiego" series. |
| Authoring |
Software which allows the user to design or modify the content. |
| Complete Self-Study |
Multimedia lessons designed to help students master the target language. |
| Computer Programming Packages |
Allows the instructor to teach students basic programming or create
self-designed software. Authority or Hypercard are examples of computer programming
environments. |
| Crossword Wordsearch |
Allows the user to create custom crossword or wordsearch puzzles. |
| Databases |
An application which allows the user to organize and store data which can
also be read and researched. |
| Demonstration/ Presentation |
This software closely resembles a video, in that it runs through its
program without any user intervention. |
| Desktop Publishing |
This type of program allows the user to combine text, graphics, databases,
multimedia features, etc., in one publication. |
| DOS |
Some IBM compatible software is designed to run under DOS, which means
that it does not require any version of Windows to operate. Most DOS software can be
accessed through Windows, but some programs must be started from the DOS-prompt. |
| Drill & Practice |
Drill and practice exercises support work covered in a traditional
classroom environment. They replicate similar non-electronic exercises and offer the
student a different approach to familiar methods of teaching. |
| Electronic Encyclopedia |
A multimedia encyclopedia which allows the user to research/read/retrieve
information. Many include dictionaries. |
| Electronic Dictionaries |
Allows the user to look up information or definitions of vocabulary. Those
available on CD-ROM often offer multimedia features, games and word puzzles. |
| Electronic mail |
This program allows the user to communicate with other users via the
Internet, or within an institution. |
| Games |
Matching, gap-filling, multiple choice, text-reconstruction, clozes,
adventures, puzzles, etc. Many offer authoring features. Games can offer supplemental
practice following lessons. |
| Internet Browsers |
An essential tool for accessing information on the World Wide Web. Allows
the user to access and/or download from the WWW, use electronic mail, etc. The most common
browsers are Netscape and Explorer. |
| Keyboarding |
Allows the user to learn typing skills. They are designed to be self-
paced and many include exercises and tracking. |
| Reading Comprehension |
Designed to improve reading skills in the target language through a
variety of exercises. |
| Simulations |
Allows the user to determine the process or make decisions (in an
adventure or game, for example) while using reading, writing or listening skills. |
| Spelling |
Allows the user to practice and improve spelling. Many spelling programs
offer multimedia features and are authorable. |
| Spreadsheets |
A program which allows the user to manipulate text and numbers, and
perform a variety of calculations. |
| Tutorials |
Software designed to teach through a demonstration of practical
information on a specific topic. Many new programs feature simple tutorials to simplify
acquisition of basic techniques. |
| Vocabulary |
Allows the user to expand vocabulary use and comprehension in the target
language. Usually authorable, which allows the teacher to create lessons. |
| Word Processing |
A computer program which allows the user to create text files and
manipulate them in a variety of ways, including formatting, before printing the file as
hard copy. Many applications include writing tools (Spell Check, Thesaurus, Grammar
Check), presentation tools, etc. |
11 D - Common Educational Software Categories