Software applications

1. Microsoft Word- I think that starting in Kindergarten, students should learn how to use Microsoft Word to create simple documents. Students will use this throughout their academic career, as well as into their career. You will always need to know how to write a paper in Word, insert clipart, graphics. Tables, and etc.

2. Microsoft Powerpoint- I think it is crucial for students to become educated young on how to use Microsoft Powerpoint. It’s a good tool for creating great presentations and there are many different tools to utilize which some people may not even be familiar with. For example, you can change the settings on your powerpoint that will separate portions of your slide so it only appears as you explain, and hit the keyboard to signal the next point to be shown.


3. Microsoft Excel- Students should learn how to make spreadsheets, charts, and graphs at a young age so they can efficiently use this software to enhance their learning throughout the rest of their academic year.

4. Microsoft Publisher- Students should be taught at a young age to use publisher to make unique templates, flyers, or illustrations for projects.


5. Kidspiration- I have recently learned about this software in my Edn 301 class. If students learn how to utilize this software, they can make timelines, pictographs, and engage in plenty of multimedia based lessons to advance their learning and have fun at the same time!

I can teach my students about these software applications by implementing them in my lessons. This can be in the form of group activities so students can work collaboratively or I can demonstrate these applications on the smartboard so they can then work individually. The kidspiration software even has lessons that students can engage in during class to learn about various topics. There are plenty of sites out there to give topics and “how-to’s” for different software. One blog I found for Microsoft Powerpoint was `http://www.ellenkinkelstein.com/pptblog/