Educational Software
Computers as teachers
Educational software encompassed everything from typing tutors to language learning programs, promising that computers could transform education.
Overview
Beyond games, educational software included typing tutors, encyclopaedias, language courses, and drill-and-practice programs. The 1990s CD-ROM era brought multimedia learning: talking dictionaries, virtual dissections, and interactive encyclopaedias. Some programs genuinely helped learning; others simply moved worksheets to screens. The category evolved into today’s learning apps.
Fast facts
- Types: tutors, drills, reference, simulation.
- CD-ROM boom: multimedia encyclopaedias, courses.
- School market: significant institutional purchasing.
- Home market: parents seeking educational value.
- Modern evolution: apps, online learning platforms.
Software categories
Educational software types:
- Drill and practice: repetitive skill building.
- Tutorials: guided instruction.
- Simulations: learning through experimentation.
- Reference: encyclopaedias, dictionaries.
- Tools: word processors, spreadsheets for students.
The CD-ROM era
Multimedia transformed education:
- Encyclopaedias: Encarta, World Book.
- Language learning: interactive courses.
- Science: virtual labs and dissections.
- Reference: massive databases on disc.