Step 1: Online ArticleIn their article, Predicting the Quality of Educational Software, Squires and Preece cite Nielsen's (1994) version of ten usability heuristics. At the end of their article, they also note a first set of “learning with software heuristics”. I have identified additional key questions based on eight of these guidelines that I believe should be considered when evaluating classroom software.1. Does the software provide “visibility into system status”? Will my students know what is happening when they use the system?2. Is there a “fit between the system and the real world”? Will my students understand the language used by the system?3. “User Control and Freedom” – Will my students be able to undo actions independently and without having to retrace unnecessary or unwanted steps? Is the system easy to navigate and/or child-friendly?4. “Consistency and Standards” - Will my students need to consider whether a term means different things or will terms in the system be used and defined consistently?5. “Recognize rather than tell” - Is the system visually configured in a way that helps my students find their way? Are the directions also visible and clear?6. “Flexibility and efficiency of use” – Will the system speak easily to my beginners and advanced learners? Will the levels automatically adjust based on my students' responses?7. “Aesthetic and minimalist design? - Does the system contain a large quantity of elements that are not necessary for learning? Do they interfere with things that are actually relevant to student learning?8. "Help users recognize, diagnose, and recover from errors" - Will my students be able to resolve their errors independently without my...... middle of paper ...... district/state standards. ISTEC Assessment ToolThis form was probably the most comprehensive of all the forms. It had enough space to detail the strengths, weaknesses, learning strategy in the design and final recommendations. It also included detailed instructions on how to use the form, as well as a list of acronym definitions. It was similar to the Kathy Schrock form and the computer software evaluation form above, as there were sections to rate the software's promotion of real-world connections, critical thinking, problem-solving skills problems and creativity. This reminded me once again of Squire and Preece's embrace of social constructivist methods and those that promoted cognitive skills. Finally, I would say that it was also partly related to the SRI guidelines as it dealt with the guidelines for grouping and evaluating students..