Evaluation of Software: IXL Pre-K First Grade Mathematics Software

Product Information
Software: IXL Pre-K First Grade Mathematics Software
http://www.ixl.com/
IXL is a Web-based educational tool that makes practicing math fun. Students can take on challenges that help them master the skills necessary to perform up to their standards. With unlimited math problems and over 1000 topics, students never get bored!
In addition to the unparalleled practice opportunities, IXL also offers a powerful reports component that teachers and parents can use to monitor student progress closely.
Widely recognized as the Web's most comprehensive math site, IXL offers a dynamic and fun environment for students to practice math. Packed with features that keep kids engaged and keep parents and teachers informed, IXL is the tool of choice for math achievement.
http://www.ixl.com/ixl_help/Default.htm

Evaluation of Software :
This program is a drill and practice software designed for first grade students. The software allows students to practice and explore areas in Mathematics and is available online. It adequately covers the concepts and skills required for first grade Math students.
Another outstanding feature of this program is that, it allows you to select a skill and/or challenge of your choice, despite not being a member. Non-members can do up to twenty different Math related problems.
There are diverse options to answer “problem based questions”, therefore students will be engaged, for it is dynamic enough to capture and hold their interest. This Mathematics software is age appropriate, and there is an audio option that enables practice for students with slower reading abilities.
The student can choose the category and level that is suited to them or can be assisted by the teacher. All problems given are shown in a variety of interesting and fun ways. There are extensive and immediate feedback activities and tools that allow teachers to properly assess their students and assist them in problem areas.
To link behaviorism to drill and practice software, according John Watson, he introduced the term behaviorism and stressed the importance of repetition:"The more frequent a stimulus and response occur in association with each other, the stronger the habit will become." This focus on repetition is seen in the drill and practice tutorials often associated with students learning basic skills.
Also, B.F. Skinner’s theory of operant conditioning stressed that "a response followed by a reinforcing stimulus is strengthened and therefore more likely to occur again." The educational implications of classical conditioning dictate students should experience academic tasks and contexts that encourage pleasant emotions. Skinner urged educators to focus on reinforcement and student successes rather than on punishing student. failures. (https://www.msu.edu/~yorkrobe/Webb/Final/lt_behaviorism.htm)