Chapter 4- Teaching with the Basic Three Software Tools: Word Processing, Spreadsheet, and Database Programs

I think that word processing is one of the most important software tools to use in the classroom. According to Roblyer and Doering (2010), “It offers many general relative advantages (unique benefits over and above other methods) to teachers and students: It saves time, enhances document appearance, allows sharing of documents, and allows collaboration of documents” (p. 115). All of these benefits have allowed teachers and students to work more constructively in the classroom. However, no software tool comes without some potential issues. Roblyer and Doering (2010) state, “Educators seem to agree that although word processing is a valuable application, its use in education can be controversial: When should students start word processing? Is it necessary to teach keyboarding skills? What effects does word processing have on handwriting? What impact does word processing have on assessment?” (p. 116). These are valid questions to ask when using word processing, and as teachers, we need to think about these questions before using word processing in our classroom.

The book provides excellent productivity and teaching strategies for using word processing in the classroom. I love that with word processing I can use the same documents every year while only changing the date and adding new information. I also like that word processors are available in other languages to support foreign language learning. This tool could be a great resource for ELLs. Furthermore, I plan to use a dynamic group product approach in my classroom. I think it is important to teach students how to work together and allowing them to use word processing will make it easier for them to share and add information onto drafts. Overall, I believe that word processing is beneficial to use in the classroom. It is great to use for individual projects and group projects. It makes creating documents easier and faster. It also gives students an easy way to edit their work, which in early childhood can be a very grueling process. Word processing does have issues to consider; however, using a variety of resources to enhance students’ learning could help counteract possible problems.