Lectura

> Resources and links [|http://lectora.com/e-learning-software/#overview] Articles and tutorials-

[|Articulate, Captivate, or lectora?] by Thomas Toth (02/04/09)
[|Lectora: Tool review] by Steve Rayson

Strengths:

 * Extensive video introduction, help sections, and interactive (right click) help capabilities makes it fairly user friendly.
 * The structure and "feel" of the software is similar to Word and PowerPoint.
 * Capabilities include not only instruction, but assessment.
 * Inclusion of flash animations and live video, extensive graphics library, and the ability to manipulate and enhance images.
 * finished product can be seen and used over a multitude of formats, such as the web, on DVD, and on mobile devices.

Weaknesses:

 * Expensive. The basic package is $3,000.00
 * Even with the tutorials, wizards, and other help options, using the software can be daunting for new users. Customer support is an additional cost ($200.00 a year)
 * Extensive capabilities, limited only by the abilities of the user. A face-to-face training is probably required.
 * Not a substitute for interaction with and support from a teacher.

Opportunities:

 * Very supportive on the non-traditional classroom. This would be very useful in a "flipped" classroom environment.
 * As a safety-net or a grade recovery situation, this software shows real promise.

**Threats**:

 * As it is a closed system (the student works within it, and cannot change it) there is very little in the way of threats here.


 * Ideas:**
 * As mentioned above, this software could be used in a "flipped" classroom, one where the students learn the new concepts at home, then practice and explore them in the classroom.
 * Students could create a flash or other animation, email it to the teacher, then it could be presented with teacher commentary through this system.