The use of computer-based technologies can enhance student learning outcomes in SOSE and the challenge for teachers is to incorporate educational computing in their SOSE programs in ways that add value.

The processes of accessing, extending, transforming and sharing can be used to describe the contribution that educational computing makes in SOSE.

The table below shows some opportunities to incorporate computer-based technologies in Bands A, B and C. The activities are shown in Bands A, B and C contexts, but the suggested strategies are applicable across all years of schooling.
 

Examples	In band A	In band B	In band C
Access	Access an e-mail distribution list to contact classes in schools around the world.	Access newspaper data and articles on the Internet.	Access information using a CD ROM package as part of a research assignment.
Extend	Write via e-mail to students in classes elsewhere in the world.	Compare the published article with the material downloaded and identify editorial decisions.	Compare information obtained from different sources and identify a range of viewpoints.
Transform	Write about the e-mail communications, using appropriate software.	Using the appropriate software, develop and publish a class newspaper with articles appropriate to the school culture.	Develop a personal viewpoint and use appropriate software to present information on this viewpoint.
Share	Use video-conferencing facilities to share information about electronic pen-pals with other schools in Tasmania.	Distribute the school newspaper to interested parties. Load the newspaper onto the school's home page.	Publish information for other people using computer facilities.

 

Three categories of educational software can assist teachers of SOSE in using computer-based technologies:

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