Generic SoftwareUsing Dazzle and

Text ease

Carys BishoppJoanne Dickson

Introduction

General Generic software overview Our observations of their use Information on Text ease Information on Dazzle Play time Discussion regarding links to the curriculum

and classroom management issues Questions

Generic Software

Software which is content free Word processing and desktop publishing

(like Text ease) Graphic software Graphing programs Databases inc spreadsheets Internet (browsers, email packages)

Observations

Often restricted to the ICT suites and used for activities unrelated to the rest of the curriculum.

ICT in the classroom is generally content rich software with little or no support given.

Non child friendly equipment e.g keyboards. Potential of this software not realised and can often

be linked to most areas of the curriculum.

Textease

A word processor and desktop publisher Can be used to create documents of any size An advantage of Text ease is there are several

features that support children's learning from pictures and animation to sound and text

Another advantage is that like Word, you can change colour, effects, font size to customise children's work

Dazzle

Art program suitable for the Foundation Stage, KS1 and 2

Can be integrated into most subjects inc. literacy and numeracy

Not just an extension activity! An advantage of Dazzle is that it can be adapted to

individual children's needs and abilities A disadvantage of Dazzle is that some tools could be

difficult to use if children are not experienced in program

Play time!

Use Dazzle to create a pirate picture of one of the characters from Pirate Boy.

Use Text ease to write a pirate poem or short story which the children can read using the voice function to practice their reading. Use the voice function to read your poem to a friend.

Think about the pros and cons...– Teacher support– Transparency – Usefulness

Discuss

With the people sitting near you, come up with a teaching idea for the Foundation Stage or a subject in KS1 which incorporates Text ease or Dazzle to feedback to the rest of the class.

Consider the pros and cons in relation to classroom organisation and management.

Any questions?

Thank you for your time. We hope you enjoyed the presentation and gained some valuable

knowledge.