Thursday, February 27, 2014

Journal Post #7

Focus Question: What are the standard and open-source software applications available on most computers?

Open-source software is a type of software that is open for the public not only to use, but also to copy and recreate. They have proven to be very dependable. The creators of this kind of software create it with the intention that other developers come up with new innovative ideas, which can create a ripple effect and make others want to keep bettering the software. According to Transforming Learning with New Technologies any computer user can find open-source alternatives for all of the big and commonly used commercial software apps.


Tech Tool Link: Squeak Etoys

Squeak Etoys is an open-source website where kids can practice problem solving and it is a program that supports inquiry learning. It is an easy accessible site and it is FREE! It is a wonderful website that every teacher should know about. It offers games and activities that are appropriate for ages k-12. As a future elementary school teacher I will definitely use this site because it is a wonderful way to keep the little kids interested and excited to practice.


Photo Credit to Lucelia Ribeiro

Summery: This chapter went into depth about open-source software, apps, and programs that support problem solving and inquiry based leaning. It also talked about how there are even video games these days that help children practice their problem solving.

Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2011). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

1 comment:

  1. Squeak is a great open source tool for students to create - your future students will love it. Scratch is an awesome one, too. There is now a 'maker' movement upon us which really promotes experimenting with tools and materials - both in real 'hand on' world as well as in the virtual one.

    Remember that the purpose of these posts are to reflect on the content in the text and provide your own responses/reactions/thoughts - and less on summarizing/reiterating the chapter's content.

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