Look for interesting and suitable websites (and/or computer software or applications) that would be appropriate to use with children in child care centers. Evaluate the site/ software/application using the following evaluation criteria. Once completed, you will post your evaluation on LEARN in the corresponding Discussion Forum.

Website link or name of software/application:

Cost?

What age group would this website or software/application be best suited for?

Software & Website Evaluation

Complete the following checklist () to help determine the appropriateness of a website.

Yes No Comments Design

Quick to load (If software/app, easy to install)

Appealing to children

Independence (little adult supervision required)

Simple, precise directions (verbal instructions?)

Navigation simple & intuitive (including exit)

Child in control

(active learning, set pace, choose path, can use trial and error)

Appropriate skills required

(simple to challenging, sequence clear, easy to learn but challenges grow)

Interactive & engaging

(process oriented, interactive & engaging, discovery, exploration, learning)

Quick response to actions

Spelling and grammar always correct

Content

Appropriate for target age (developmentally appropriate?)

Relevant to curriculum goals

Easily understood

Graphics relevant and appropriate

(animation, color, realistic, uncluttered)

Sound effects/music

(realistic/supports graphics)

Information accurate & current

Non violent

(prosocial behaviors demonstrated)

Anti-bias

(gender, role equity, diverse cultures, ages, abilities, family styles, multiple languages) Strengths: Areas of Concern: Would you recommend this website/software/application? Why or why not?