The following list should be kept into consideration when evaluating software.  Rankings are used to help evaluate titles.  (A = Always, S.E. = Some Extent, N = Never, n.a. = Not Applicable)

One of the first thing you should do when evaluating a piece of software is to write the down the following information.  What is the title of the software?  Who published it?  What type of computer is it made for?  What are the requirements and distribution?  What is the copyright date?  What is the cost?  After you have completed this step you can continue to answer questions, using rankings, as you proceed through your evaluation.
 

The program should consist of the following criteria:      Installation is straightforward and easy to do
It is easy to get in or out of any activity at any point      Offers a good presentation of one or more content areas      Is enjoyable to use
Has printing capabilities      Offers a help function      Is age appropriate
Meets your objectives      Promotes independent use      Falls within your budget      Offers positive reinforcement
Keeps student's records      Graphics are meaningful      Written materials are helpful
Children can understand the program's feedback      Will operate smoothly in a classroom setting      Speech is used      Will grow with the child      Children return to this program time after time

    The above criteria is just a small list of what could be used to evaluate a piece of software.
       Remember that you need to make sure that the software fits your needs.
 

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Software Evaluation

edited on April 21, 1998
by Diane Dwenger and Pam Eck, IUPUI