Educational Software

It has probably crossed the mind of every teacher that teachers may become replaced by technology. Billions of dollars have been invested by major education companies in the development of sophisticated software to teach students reading and math skills. Despite the grandiose claims made by these companies, results have not matched the hype.

Comprehensive reviews of software programs by the United States Department of Education has not shown the programs to have a discernable effect on student achievement and learning. Further, the software programs are typically three times more costly than traditional textbooks and print materials.

We are certainly not at the point where teaching can be turned over to computers. What research has shown is that students do best when they are taught directly by good teachers.