An Introduction to Software Evaluation
Software is an integral component of any computer activity. There are many types of software available, and not all of it is developmentally appropriate for young children. Children should be encouraged to explore and learn as they interact with software either by themselves or with other children.
Software should take advantage of the innovative features technology offers today.
What Is Software?
Software is an umbrella term which includes computer programs. The coding in the program directs the computer. Software comes in different formats:
- 5.25 floppy disks - store limited amount of data
- 3.5 disks housed in hard plastic cases - usually 1-2 MB data
- Zip Disks- Can Store Up to 100 MB data
- CD-ROMs - Compact Disc-Read Only Memory - most can hold over 600 MB data
- DVD's - capable of holding gigabytes of information; commonly used for games and movies
Basic Features of Software
Three main considerations to be made before purchasing software are compatibility with the computer, user-friendly features, and company support.
Compatibility
Make sure the software requirements match your computer system. Usually requirements are printed on the software box or provided in the catalog description. Consider the following:
- RAM (Random Access Memory)
- ROM (Read Only Memory) and/or hard drive space
- Operating system requirements
- Monitor size
- Color and graphics capabilities
- CD-ROM drive requirements
- Processor Speed
Program Features
Features to consider when selecting software for young children’s use:
- On-screen reading should not be required to operate the program
- Pressing an incorrect key or clicking in the wrong place should not cause the program to freeze or crash
- Children should be able to correct errors in writing or drawing software with an “undo” feature
- Children should be able to bypass the introduction screen
- Children should be able to exit at any time in the program
- Printing options should be available for writing and graphics programs
- Save option should be available for writing and graphics programs
Company Support
- Documentation and troubleshooting tips should accompany the program
- Customer service help line should be provided by the company
- Warranty, guarantee, and return policy should be clearly stated
Software Design for Early Childhood
Programs should be designed around strong content that is interesting, engaging, addresses a range of topics, and relates to real life experiences and imaginative situations. Content should go beyond popular cartoon characters and address cognitive abilities that require children to make decisions and judgements. Software should invite children’s exploration and creative thinking. Well-designed software gives children time to pause and reflect rather than presenting an overload of sensory stimulation. Software should be enjoyable to children and sustain their interest, encouraging them to use their imagination.
Design Elements
Sound
Software should allow voices, music, and other sounds to be recorded. The program should contain interesting and appropriate sounds and music related to the content. Any speech contained in software should be clear and understandable. Volume should be controllable from within the software.
Graphics
Software should contain well drawn images that are engaging to young children. If pictures are used, they should be clear. Screens in software should be simple and well designed with appealing color and free of decorative elements that distract from the content. Real photos should be used as much as possible to help children relate content to their own experiences.
Animation
Animation routines should be smooth and immediate considering the capabilities of new equipment and developer's software. Any video and animation should be appropriate to the software’s content.
Types of Software
Commercial Programs
School districts may spend most of their technology budget on hardware, leaving little money left for software. Resources must be used wisely in purchasing software that will meet the needs of a variety of children. Software, such as open ended programs, HyperStudio, Logo, and Kid Pix Deluxe, can be individualized and serve many different functions. These type of programs may be preferable with a limited budget. Many software programs have a reduced cost for the 'educational version'.
Shareware and Freeware
In addition to commercial programs, there are also programs which can be copied for free or for a small amount of money. Shareware is software that is produced with the intention of being copied and shared. A small payment is usually expected for use of the program. Some developers use the honor system, leaving it up to the user to send in payment for the software. Other developers program the software for a set number of trials and require users to contact them to continue using the program, at which time the user is billed.
Freeware or public domain software are programs that can be copied for free. Public domain programs are not copyrighted and can be modified by the user. On the other hand, freeware is software that is copyrighted, therefore it can not be sold or modified.
The Internet is a valuable resource for software. Shareware is available for downloading from web sites, such as:
A search is needed at the web site to find early childhood software that is developmentally appropriate.
Legal Responsibilities of Software Users
It is not always appropriate or legal to copy or share software with others. Although software is relatively easy to copy, there are laws which protect the software producer’s rights.
Software User Considerations
- Making Back Ups – A back up of the software should be made in case the original program is damaged. If a software company does not allow a back up to be made, a second copy is usually available for a nominal fee.
- Return Policies – The user should complete any warranty or software registration card and return it to the company. Although return policies for software vary, most reputable companies will provide a refund for programs which do not work. Most companies also offer a help line, either through phone or at their web site, to assist the user in solving their software problem.
- Upgrades – Users who complete the software registration card are usually notified of software upgrades. Depending on the company, the software upgrade may need to be purchased for a small fee or it may be available as a free download from the company web site.
