If we talk about computers, the first thing we think is its physical aspect such as the monitor keyboard, mouse, printer and the CPU where it receives/ stores data and direct computer operations. Though we tend to forget and realize, however, that the computer hardware can hardly be useful without the system that tells what the computer machine should do which is called software.
There are two kinds of software:
1. System software- it is the operating system that is found or bundled inside all computer machines
2. Application software- where it contains the system that commands the particular task or solves a particular problem
In turn, the applications software may be custom software that is made for specific tasks often by large corporations, or commercial software packaged for personal computers that helps with a variety of tasks such as writing papers, calculating numbers, drawing graphs or playing games.
Microsoft Windows referred to as program, Microsoft Windows (Windows) is an operating environment between the user and the computer operating system. Also called a shell, a layer creates the way the computer should work. It uses a colourful graphics interface can be seen on the computer screen or monitor whenever the computer is turned on. The user can work with on-screen pictures (icons) and suggestions (menus) to arrive at the desired software. Actually, Windows is in itself a self-contained operating system that provides:
Ø user convenience – just click a file name to retrieve data or click from program to program as easy as changing channels in your TV screen
Ø new look – fancy borders, smooth and streamlined text fonts
Ø Information centre – Windows puts all communications activities (e-mail, downloads etc. in a single screen icon); adapts/configures the computer for the Internet.
Ø plug and play – configures the computer with added components, such as for sound and video.
Instructional Software
Instructional software can be visited on the Internet or can be bought from software shops or dealers. Teacher should decide on the best computer-based instructional (CBI) materials for the school resource collection. Being aware CBIs is much needed, because it can be either extremely good or a complete garbage.
In evaluating computer-based educational materials, the following can serve as guidelines:
Ø Be extremely cautious in using CBIs and “free” Internet materials
Ø Don’t be caught up by attractive graphics, sound animation pictures video clip & music
Ø Teachers must evaluate these resources using sound pedagogical principles.
Ø Among design and content elements to evaluate are: the text legibility, effective use of color schemes, attractive layout and design, and easy navigation from section-to-section
Ø Clarity in the explanations and illustrations of concepts and principles
Ø Accuracy, coherence, logic of information
Ø Being current since data/statistics continually change
Ø Relevance/effectiveness in attaining learning objectives
Ø Absence of biased materials (e.g. gender bias or racial bias)
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