Week Five

Chapters Five & Six

Question 3: What are authoring systems? What is the difference between drill-and-practice software and tutorial software? When is it appropriate to use each in teaching and learning?

Rather than rely on off-the-shelf products, teachers often would like to create customized multimedia lessons that are tailored to their instructional plans and their student’s needs. This is why teachers should consider learning to use an authoring system. According to the Dictionary of Computing an authoring system is “a special application that allows you to create multimedia titles. Authoring software lets you design the pages of the multimedia book and place video clips, images, text and sound on a page.” Teachers can use authoring systems to make learning modules for use on classroom computers and for access from the World Wide Web. Authoring systems are designed to produce hypermedia format in which the user can control the path of the presentation by clicking on buttons or links on each page. Web authoring systems generate output in HTML code which is the standard for using on the internet. There are many authoring software systems to choose from ranging from inexpensive and simple to use all the way to advanced applications which can produce professional-looking websites and learning modules. Some authoring systems are even simple enough for students to use. Teachers may choose to produce a multimedia or web-based lesson to address a specific learning objective, to target a certain learning modality, or to provide differentiated instruction. These lessons can be used in large groups, small groups, or by individual students. Authoring systems can also be used to produce a class website or student portfolios. A commonly used authoring system is HyperStudio for Windows. PowerPoint includes hyperlink capabilities that transform it from a mere slideshow maker to an easy-to-use authoring tool.

The biggest difference between tutorials and drill-and-practice programs is in their use. Tutorials are used to present new material, whereas drill-and-practice programs are intended to reinforce material that has already been taught.

Compared to other forms of computer-based learning such as simulation and games, the presentation of material in tutorials is more structured and managed. However, tutorials don’t have to be strictly linear in their path; often they contain hyperlinks to allow the user some control over the experience. Good tutorials will incorporate effective use of instructional strategies as well as multimedia content. Advantages of tutorials include the student progress tracking and individualized pacing. A high-quality tutorial can be a valid choice for communicating new content to students. Tutorials also can be valuable for learning support, such as when a student needs more time on a topic or has been absent.

Drill-and-practice software is all about practice and feedback. Students use this type of software to apply skills and knowledge they have already learned and receive immediate feedback about their performance with the goal of improving the skills and reinforcing knowledge. Some educators worry that drill and practice programs will be boring for students and thus turn them away from the importance of the content. However, good use of multimedia components can go a long way to make drill and practice more interesting and engaging. Many drill-and-practice programs include automatic student progress tracking. High quality drill-and-practice applications may also include a diagnostic feature which designs a program of practice based on student needs. Drill-and-practice software is recommended for review, supplemental activities, and studying for formal evaluations.

authoring software , authoring system. (2008). In Dictionary of Computing. Retrieved from http://www.credoreference.com.logon.lynx.lib.usm.edu/entry/acbcomp/authoring_software_authoring_system