Software Selection Considerations

Software programs are not intended to take the place of the role of teacher! Good instruction is still good instruction! However, quality software programs can provide students with additional learning opportunities,  activities, practice, and engagement needed for acquiring 21st Century skills.

As you are considering the purchase of software programs or packages for your building, the following questions may help guide your decision:

1. Is the software program founded on the principles of research based instruction? 
2. Is the software program aligned to student need? 
3. Is the software program age level appropriate? 
4. Is the software program aligned to the existing curriculum/ICC? 
5. Does the software program work? Will it work on your existing hardware? If it's server based, do you have a server availalbe or do you need to purchase one? Will there be bandwidth issues or is the current bandwdith sufficient for this product? 
6. Is the program easy to use and navigate for both students and teachers? 
7. Does the software program differentiate to meet the individual needs of the students? 
8. Does the software program provide progress monitoring and sufficient reporting to determine both student need and student progress? 
9. Does the program provide needed practice for the student, yet expand sufficiently to provide extended learning as needed? 
10. Is the program engaging to the student?

Of course, not all program will have all components of the above. No software package is perfect! Find what works best for your situation, students and teachers.