FIVE CATEGORIES OF INSTRUCTIONAL SOFTWARES:

1. TUTORIALS
- A high quality and well-designed computer-based tutorials have the
basic features of the traditional tutorial approach.
- Web-based tutorials are highly interactive.
2. SIMULATION
- Provides a controlled learning environment that replicates key
elements of real-world environment.
- Designed in a way that the actions a student takes within the simulated
environment produce results similar to those that would take place in
the real world.
- Use of this software is cost-effective and safe.
3. DRILL-AND-PRACTICE
- Commonly used to reinforce mastery of specifics skills.
- It has a more limited focus therefore should not be used to introduce a
new area of learning or topic.
- Cannot develop higher order thinking skills among students
- Use this type of software if the learning goals are for skill fluency.
- This software is a shift from the traditional teaching which uses flash
cards
4. EDUCATIONAL GAMES
- This software is popular to students mainly because it challenges and
excites them.
- Like simulations, this software may activate prior knowledge and can
spark learner’s interest.
- A carefully designed educational games should emphasize cooperation
and teamwork rather than competition.
5. EXPLORATORY ENVIRONMENT SOFTWARE
- Designed to provide manageable and responsive computer-based
worlds for learners to explore and manipulate.
- Offers elements for learners to work with and a setting where
manipulation of these elements will enable them to explore a body of
information or a rule system.
- Present information but are not directive like tutorials.
- There is a high degree of learner control and active learning is
anchored on realistic situations and experiences, therefore, considered
student-centred in approach.
- Different from other instructional software because of its manipulative
features.
- This manipulative feature enhances student’s creativity and decision
making.