Guidelines for Reviewing Software for Mathematics Teacher

A. Summary

Summarize the information provided by the supplier describing the objective and intended audience.

B. Description

  1. Briefly describe what comes with the package ( e.g., documentation, teacher/student resources, number of diskettes, etc.)
  2. Briefly describe the software ( e.g., what it does, how it interacts with the user in a typical session or application, etc.)

C. Evaluation

If possible, you should evaluate the program through observing its use by students of the intended grade or ability levels. Please document capabilities and drawbacks of the product by means of specific observations of actual student use.

Use the following questions as a guideline:

  1. What are the most noteworthy features (or flaws) of the program?
  2. Is the content mathematically sound and well sequenced?
  3. How much teacher direction is required in the start-up and operation of the program, i.e., how teacher/student friendly is the program?
  4. How useful are the support materials?
  5. How does the program complement existing mathematics curriculum?

D. Summary Comments/Recommendations

E. Review Information

Briefly, describe how you went about assessing the materials.

Things to note

Due to the complexity of some programs, you may find that the suggested format is not ideal or that your review exceeds the 250 word limit. Judicious use of alternate formats and additional space is acceptable. Remember, our intent is to make the reviews useful to readers and consistent in quality.

Software in your area of interest will be sent periodically from the Reston office. If the material is not compatible with your system, or if you are unable or uninterested in reviewing the software, please return it as soon as possible.

Your review should end with your name, affiliation, city, state abbreviation, and zip code. For example: Tom Jones. Smith High School. Sprin2field. IL 50012.

Try to email the review to mtreviews@nctm.ort by the deadline. You may also submit your review via regular mail. Please keep a copy for your records.

Due to space limitations, your review may be edited for style and clarity or shortened for publication. Your review will appear as soon as the publication schedule allows. Your interest and efforts in maintaining a quality journal are very much appreciated.

MT 6100