Chapter 3

Chapter 3 is about Software Productivity Tools for educators. The chapter begins with a brief introduction about the importance of learning about software. The chapter goes on to discuss how software can be identified in two categories; system software and application software. Operating systems, which fall into the system software category, contain useful features and access to tools. Examples of operating systems include Windows XP, Mac OS, and UNIX. Application software performs specific tasks for users. Application software solutions are common for word processing and email tasks.
Chapter 3 contained a large amount of useful information. I think using the computer for daily activities has become second nature to most people. Breaking down the information and understanding the basics of software is important. The visuals in the text really help when trying to understand new terms and processes. Some of the examples of software tools, like the student note taking software, were very interesting.
I’ve enjoyed our assignments so far. It’s been nice to use application software other than Microsoft Word to write a paper. The assignments have been a good way to become exposed the application software available that teachers and students can utilize. Although I was familiar with many of the terms and information in Chapter 3, I feel there are a lot of new things I picked up while reading the chapter, especially in the special features section about Wikis, Podcasts, and Websites.