Lesson 14: The Software as an Educational Resource

       Usually when we think about computers, what we focus is the computer machine or computer hardware. But then, the computer hardware can hardly be useful without the software because the software tells what the computer machine should do.         There are two kinds of software: the systems software and the applications software. The systems software is the operating sytem that is found or bundled inside all computer machines. On the other hand, the applications software contains the system that commands the particular task or solves a particular problem. In turn, the applicatios software may be: a custom software that is made for specific tasks often by large corporations or a commercial software packaged for personal computers that helps with a variety of tasks such as writing papers, calculating numbers, drawing graphs, playing games and so much more.          Microsoft Windows is an operating environment between the user and the computer operating system. Also called a shell, it is a layer that creates the way the computer should do. Windows uses a colorful graphics user interface (GUI) that can be seen on the computer screen or monitor whenever the computer is turned on. Windows in itself a self-contained operating system which provides user-convenience, a new look, information center and, plug and play.       Instructional software can be visited on the Internet or can bought from software shops or dealers. The teacher through his or her school should decide on the best computer-based istructional materials for the school resource collection.       The software can truly serve as an educational resource given that we have choosen a good-quality software and we know exactly how to use. To some, who are not yet familiar in using a particular software: Don't worry, it can be learned. Be positive about it.