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The computer is an excellent teaching tool. Because newer computers make excellent use of multimedia, computer based lessons can contain text, graphics, illustrations, sound, animation and video. Learning from a computer can be a multi-sensory experience.
A computer is also a good "interactive" learning tool. The lesson can teach a concept and then ask the user to respond by supplying answers to questions or making a decision. Based on the answer given, the computer is programmed to either move on to the next topic, give further explanation of the topic, branch to a related topic, or review the material presented. In many cases, scores can be retained and progress reports can be generated.
The compact disk (CD-ROM), because of it's huge storage capacity, is well suited to storing large volumes of information such as an encyclopedia or library of clip art. A single CD-ROM disk can store information from an entire set of encyclopedias. CD-ROM encyclopedias (and other reference works) can contain illustrations, photos, sounds, animation, and movie clips. By storing large volumes of reference material on a disk, the computer can quickly search the entire disk and retrieve the information you requested. The information can then be printed or transferred into a report without the need for retyping the text.
Another popular feature of computer-based reference material is the use of "hypertext." Hypertext (sometimes referred to as linking or hyperlinking) allows you to jump to related topics by selecting specially marked text in the document. For example, if you are reading a document and encounter a word you do not know the meaning of, you could click your mouse on the word and a definition would appear. If you would like additional information about a topic in your document, you could click on the word and jump to a related topic or further explanation.
In addition to encyclopedias and other reference material, there are software programs that teach a wide variety of topics, such as foreign languages, music, cooking, computer topics, games and gambling, auto repair, exercise, school subjects such as math, geography, science, and many more.
Other application software programs that you install onto your computer may have a built in tutorial included that will teach you how to begin using the program. Most software programs come with a reference manual which is accessable from the "Help" menu to allow you to look up features and proceedures when you need help.
| Choose another lesson topic |
| Return to "The Starting Line" |
| Check out my favorite WWW links |