Week 10 Blog!!!!

1. Define System Software. What operating system do you use? I use Macintosh Operating System (MAC OS X) System software is programs that control the operations of the computer and its devices. I use windows XP and I LOVE it!!!

2. Define user interface. What is a graphical user interface? Describe some common features of both the Windows and Macintosh graphical user interface. User interface controls how anybody enters data or instructions and how information is presented on the screen. The graphical interface combines text, graphics and other visual cues to make software easier to use. SOme of the common graphical user interface that Windows and Macintosh have is software packages. This includes Microsoft word.

3. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of using Note Taking Software. eSome of the advantages with note taking software includes: handwrite notes, draw sketches, type text, send hand written emails. Some of the disadvantages may include the students not having the experience in writing. Some kids these days need that experience.

4. What is productivity software? Name and describe five different types of productivity software used by K-12 teachers. Provide an example of how productivity software may be used to increase learning within the classroom? Prodeuctivity software is software designed to make people more effective and efficient while proforming daily activities. 5 types are: word processing in which a teacher can use to make a report, spreadsheets in which a teacher can use to put in grades, database in which a teacher can use to put in a unit lesson, presentation graphics in which a teacher can use to present an activity using pictures to present the information, and personal information management in which a teacher can use for storing their personal information such as address books, appointment calendars, and notepads. Whith the use of productivity software a teacher can become more organized in their classrooms, they can also be more organized in their personal work life.

5. Review the “Graphics/Multimedia Software” and “Software for School Use” (p. 159-166). Do you have experience in using any of these software programs with your students? If so, share your experience(s). If not, how do you believe these software programs may enhance student learning?There were many different software programs presented in this chapter. When I was in the classroom I would use the publisher software. As a class we would create a newsletter for our parents. Whith the newsletter, we would keep parents informed about what is going on in our classroom with a fun and imaginative way. Students loved creating their own articles about what activities are coming up in our classroom. We would also use the publisher software to create flyers for our fall carnival.