Academic Software: An Overview
ACADEMIC SOFTWARE
WHAT IS ACADEMIC SOFTWARE?
Academic Software describes Software that can be identified by the following markers: “Academic Edition” or “Academic License” (or words of similar meaning). Academic Software, also referred to as Educational Software, is computer software with the primary purpose of teaching or self-learning.
HISTORY OF ACADEMIC SOFTWARE
The concept of computers and automated teaching finds its roots in the field of Psychology. In fact, Dr. S. L. Pressey exhibited and discussed an early version of a teaching machine at the meetings of American Psychological Association in 1924 and 1925. This machine introduced an automated version of multiple choice testing to the educational world. Subsequently, B.F. Skinner started experimenting with teaching machines that made use of programmed learning in 1954. These machines were rooted in the theory of Behaviourism; reinforcement a primary factor. Skinner’s teaching machines though they came after Dr. Pressey, were still considered one of the first forms of computer-based learning. The teaching machine composed of a system of combined teaching and test items that carried the student gradually through the requisite material to be learned. The “machine” was composed of fill-in-the-blank items presented utilizing a workbook or a computer. Students were positively reinforced or allowed to study the answer for a chance at receiving positive reinforcement in the future. These are the foundations of Academic Software employed in the 21st century.
WHO USES ACADEMIC SOFTWARE?
Academic Software is a large domain of computerized tools which includes software designed to cater to the needs of different categories of users: students, teachers, administrators, mentors, among others.
WHAT IS ACADEMIC SOFTWARE USED FOR?
Academic Software can also be curated for different types of education and environments: traditional classrooms, self-directed learning, asynchronous lessons, and others. These computer applications are made to enhance the learning process and are downloadable on personal systems. This makes education accessible on-the-go, outside of the traditional brick and mortar classroom or physical environment.
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