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Why DAP?. DAP software engages children in creative play, mastery learning. Problem solving and conversationChildren control the pace and action of the softwareChildren can repeat activities as often as they likeChildren can make and share decisions collaboratively. How do I know what is DAP?. Haugland/Shade Developmental Software EvaluationSimple
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1. Developmentally Appropriate Software
Allen C. Grant
Louisiana State University Laboratory School
agrant@lsu.edu
2. Why DAP? DAP software engages children in creative play, mastery learning. Problem solving and conversation
Children control the pace and action of the software
Children can repeat activities as often as they like
Children can make and share decisions collaboratively
3. How do I know what is DAP?
Haugland/Shade Developmental Software Evaluation
Simple—uses 10 criteria as its form of evaluation(highest possible score is 10)
Takes anti-bias into account
Any software over 7.0 is considered appropriate
5. Criterion 1-Age Appropriate Realistic Concepts
Appropriate Methods—teaching method reflects cognitive, physical, emotional and social skills
6. Criterion 2-Child In Control Actors not reactors: children decide the sequence of events rather than react to predetermined activities
Children set pace, not the computer
Can escape! Children can return to the main menu anytime
Trial and error
7. Criterion 3-Clear Instructions
Picture choices:has graphics
Simple and precise directions
Verbal instructions:sound
8. Criterion 4-Expanding Complexity Low entry, high ceiling: software should reflect children’s current cognitive, physical and language skills
Learning sequence clear: software moves easily to more complex concepts in a meaningful manner
Teaches powerful ideas:concepts/knowledge that children can internalize and apply to new situations or problems
9. Criterion 5-Independence
A Teacher’s Favorite!
Adult supervision not needed after initial exposure
10. Criterion 6-Non Violence Non-Violence
Software is free of violent characters and actions and does not contain objects children can use to perform violent acts
Software models social values: demonstrates the importance of caring, cooperation, communication, sharing and friendship
11. Criterion 7-Process orientation Discovery Learning
Intrinsic motivation: no external rewards
Process engages, product secondary: children are motivated when they are engaged in exploration
12. Criterion 8-Real World Model Concrete representation: objects are realistic and resemble closely how they appear in environment
Objects function: children are provided with a small model of the world right in their classroom
Simple reliable model: the scale of objects is realistic
13. Criterion 9-Technical Features Animation
Colorful
Installs easily
Operates consistently
Prints
Realistic corresponding sound effects
Realistic graphics
Runs quickly
Saves children’s work
14. Criterion 10-Transformations Objects and situations change
Process highlighter:children learn about hidden processes
i.e. sun and water on plant growth
15. Rating 1.0-software reflects all characteristics within a criteria
0.5-software reflects at least half the characteristics within a criteria
0-software reflects less than half of the characteristics within a criteria
Deduct for anti-bias if applicable
16. Determining anti-bias deduction Multiple languages
Universal focus: contains objects and situations familiar to all children and/or represents objects and situations from diverse cultures
Mixed gender and role equity:no stereotypes
People of diverse cultures assume pivotal roles
Different abilities or age: realistic view of diverse ages and abilities
Diverse family styles
17. Resources Developmental Software Awardshttp://childrenandcomputers.com/developmentalawards/developmental_awards.htmSince 1992, the Developmental Software Awards have identified programs that do an exceptional job of meeting children's interests, needs, and abilities.
ALA Notable Computer Software for Childrenhttp://www.ala.org/alsc/nsoft00.htmlThese titles are selected by a committee of librarians and educators from across the country on the basis of their originality, creativity, and suitability for young children. The members select materials that respect both children's intelligence and imagination, exhibit venturesome creativity, and encourage the interests of users. Look for the 2001 list to be posted soon.
Edumatchhttp://www.edumatch.com/index_flash.cfmThis is also a commercial site that allows you to "find educational software that matches your state's curriculum, your teaching style, and all the features you prefer" through a super search format. The page has some programming errors so there may be some problems with the display. Products may be ordered directly from this site.
18. Resources-continued Technology and Learninghttp://www.techlearning.com/review.htmlThis magazine's Web site provides a searchable database of reviews.
Superkids.comhttp://www.superkids.com/This site provides its own reviews by educators, parents, and children, as well as news on related issues. It provides search and browse functions and includes a bestseller list and a price survey.