Computers Help Teachers Too!

The value of management software in an educational setting is sometimes questioned by teachers and administrators because it does not directly relate to the teaching or reinforcement of skills. In reality, however, management software does have an appropriate place in an instructional setting. When microcomputers are first introduced into a school sytem, it is not unusual for staff to feel apprehensive. One way to create interest in microcomputers is to show staff various ways that organizational and planning tasks can be handled by computers. Management software provides a means by which teachers can group students effectively for instruction, update progress records, and readily access appropriate materials and activities.

In this paper, management software is described and the benefits of this type of software for both classroom and resource teachers are considered. Several specific applications of the published software, DB Master, are outlined as they relate to reading and speech programs. Also considered are problems specific to early experiences in learning about computers and management software as well as their introduction into a school program.