Software-Made to Stick

“Here we go again, Another Professional Development Workshop! I wonder what new thing we will be trying this semester.” This was the comment that I heard during my first teachers institute training session. I couldn’t understand the meaning behind this comment until months later. Apparently it is normal for teachers to receive new programs to pilot, yet they are quickly abandoned and replaced with other programs.

Contrary to my colleagues, I was excited to attend this particular workshop especially once the presenter said three magic words “Compass Learning Odyssey.” I love this program! As a new teacher, I wasn’t familiar with methods for integrating technology into my classroom. It seemed that all the material I found wasn’t age appropriate or teacher friendly. However, after just two months with this program my kids were hooked. One student “Sunshine” was especially receptive. Sunshine was transferred into my classroom after countless accidents in her previous class. She liked pulling the fire alarms, hiding in the bathroom from teachers, and writing on other kids’ art projects- (Sunshine was later diagnosed with Autism). When she entered my classroom I noticed quickly that her attention span lasted about 3 minutes so this was the first thing I wanted to work on. After reading from different sources I implemented sign language and computers which both helped tremendously.

The first program I tried was Compass Learning Odyssey. I particularly liked this program because of the following:

• I was able to review and select age appropriate skills which were aligned to state standards. As a new teacher this was helpful because I wasn’t familiar with all state requirements.

• The assignments were independent study. Each student was assigned a user id and password which could be assessed in or out of school. This was helpful because I was able to give upper level students advanced work, while my struggling learners practiced the skills they needed. This individualized instruction ensured that students didn’t become bored or overwhelmed.

• I was able to send encouraging messages to my students during testing. Because the messages were personalized, the students saw me as their cheerleader!

• Students were given instant feedback after an assessment. From the results, the program assigned lessons to review the skills which were not mastered.

• All students’ lessons and scores were itemized for future review. I often used this material for reference during parent conferences.

Students loved the program for different reasons. First, they felt independent when they were assigned their own user name and password and after much practice they were able to log on by themselves. Once logged in, they felt special having a folder tailored to them. Seeing their progress made them proud. The program also allowed them to resume the previous lesson. Sometimes the students became discouraged when they saw that another student was working on something more interesting but it also motivated them to work toward that lesson. Overall, they enjoyed the interactive lessons and they frequently requested computer time.

In my opinion Compass Learning Odyssey is a program worth reviewing. Give your students Compass, a tool to help them navigate through life!