1. Instructional Software:
iPads in the Elementary Classroom
iPads in the Elementary Classroom
an overview of the relative advantages that various
types of instructional software (apps) offer
By Marne
Bender

2. What is Instructional
Software?
Roblyer & Doering (2013) define instructional
software as computer programs designed
with the exclusive goal of delivering
instruction or assisting with the delivery of
instruction.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers.

3. Advantages of Instructional Software:
Apps for iPads
Apps for iPads
iPads and other mobile devices are becoming a
common sight in classrooms. Applications (apps) are
easily available and often free on iTunes for all
grade levels. Many apps offer teachers the
opportunity to personalize instruction, monitor
progress, and are easy to deploy to students.
Students enjoy the variety of learning choices,
gaming features, and use of use that apps offer.

4. Drill and
Practice Apps
Students complete practice
problems in a content area at
their instructional level. Students
receive immediate feedback after
repetitive practice.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers.

5. Why Drill and Practice?
Students get immediate feedback.
It's engaging and motivating, and it also
saves teacher time.
It helps develop automaticity of basic skills.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers.

6. Drill and Practice Apps for
iPads
Quick Math app
Students write math fact answers
directly on screen; practice all
operations with three different
difficulty levels. Records fastest
times; teachers can monitor time
and accuracy by viewing students'
iPads. Students are motivated to
beat previous times and accuracy
levels.

7. Tutorial Apps
Students are guided through a
sequence of instruction.
Tutorials are designed to take
the placed of the teacher.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers

8. Why Tutorial Apps?
Allows for the learner to experience selfpaced, self contained instruction.
Good tutorial software offers strong user
control and interactivity.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers

9. Tutorial Apps for iPads
SuccessMaker by Pearson
App and internet based
software; provides personalized
instruction and tutorials based
on students' needs and answers
to math and reading questions.
Teachers set goals and track
progress.

10. Simulation
Apps
Simulation software allows
students to react to provided
situations; thus manipulating their
learning. Realistic simulations
should teach about a topic or how
to do something.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers

11. Why Simulation Apps?
Simulation apps provide students with inexpensive
opportunities to see/do something they normally
wouldn't be able to.
Experimentation is safe and brought to life.
Students get actively involved and can also make
observations.

12. Simulation Apps for iPads
3D Cell Simulation and Stain Tool
Students can simulate the use of
stains to highlight specific
organelles and parts of cells.
Students are exposed to cells and
organelles in a 3D, digital
environment, rather than using
expensive dyes and scientific lab
equipment.

13. Instructional
Games/Apps
Instructional games are designed
to be competitive and highly
engaging. These are delivered in
a game format, typically with
rules.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers

14. Why Instructional Games?
Instructional games are very engaging to
students and tap into their need to compete.
Can be used in any content area easily.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers

15. Instructional Game Apps for
iPads
Multiplication with Math Matthews
Students solve multiplication
problems and design arrays as
they collect coins and treasures.
Students practice mastering
multiplication facts and
advance to more difficult levels
as needed.

16. Problem
Solving Apps
Students must solve a provided
problem involving a goal, and
process, and mental activity.
Students use higher order
thinking skills to solve these
problems.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers

17. Why Problem Solving Apps?
Problem solving practice helps students
increase their knowledge and application of
problem solving skills and strategies.
Many students are more motivated and
interested in problem solving activities.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers

18. Problem Solving Apps
Ticket to Ride
Students learn USA
geography while also
balancing the need to plan
routes, simultaneous needs,
and risk/reward scenarios.
Students will not only problem
solve, but learn to work well
with others.

19. Additional Resources
Integrating Educational Technology into
Teaching, by Roblyer and Doering
iPads in the Classroom by Kathy Schrock
Ways to Evaluate Educational Apps by
Tony Vincent

20. Presentation Resources
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2013). Integrating educational
technology into teaching. Boston:
Pearson/Allyn and Bacon Publishers