Cool Tools for Techies

By Rebecca Stern

• Word Processors, databases, and spreadsheet applications are the most common computer tools– Tools enable students to perform tasks of better

quality, more efficiently. Students can be more productive by organizing data using these applications. Word processing involves storing text and manipulating text within the document. Children develop writing skills more quickly when working with word processor applications.

• There are many features in word processor applications that can be utilized as tools for the student– Text input, storage and retrieval, and formatting are characteristics of

word processing applications. Word processing applications enable you to be more efficient when writing or typing on the computer. Students can store documents and retrieve these documents when they need them. Students can save documents to a file and access them from multiple computers. Word processing helps students with formatting. For example, if students want to create a letter, there are different types of letter formats instantly accessible to the student. This feature is great for saving information. Students can save a document to a word processor and copy/paste to another outlet. An “ebook” is a good example of how students can do this. There is a lot to learn, so teacher can make “how to” posters that show steps to help the student from becoming overwhelmed.

• Portfolios are awesome tools for educators to use in the classroom

– We use our wiki’s like a portfolio of work. Here the teacher can access our work on outside sources through links. This makes for easy grading, and helps students keep track of work. Student drafts can also be stored in an online portfolio. Here the teacher can keep track of student progress.

Web Writing

• Using the web for writing makes for easy organization– Students can use charts and graphs for brainstorming

and comparing ideas. There are many templates available as tools for students. The web is a valuable untapped resource! For example, a friend of mine just gave her notice when leaving her apartment. Prior to that, she asked me if she should give verbal notice, write a note, or type a note. I told her to type it, but to go online and find a proper format for giving notice and copy it. I wanted her to submit a formal letter to cover all her bases with her landlord. The web proved to be a valuable tool for her.

• Spreadsheets knowledge is crucial for student success– Students can plug information into a spreadsheet

and attach a formula. The spreadsheet adds the information for you. Spreadsheets work really well for payroll and comparisons in numbers. Also, spreadsheets work well for surveys, money management (as mentioned above), keeping records, and other calculations.