Classroom management software is the most effective way to track student progress in the digital age. Although students still learn the fundamentals of math, science, language and other subjects, they are also a lot more tech savvy than past generations. And teachers can keep up by utilizing classroom management software to track grades, events and more.

Your provider should be able to give you a classroom management software list of products they offer. Most providers will have more than one type of software for your classroom's needs, so review all the features and decide which programs will work best for you. Some features included in many software programs are:

1. The ability to track students' progress through standardized test and practice test scores.

2. Comprehensive grade tracking.

3. Many classroom management software programs provide event calendars and planning.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Test out classroom management software with free programs

Many companies that sell classroom management software know how important it is for you to see the product in action before you decide to buy it. Most companies offer a basic program that is completely free to use. Others have a 15 to 30 day trial of the full program, with an option to buy at the end. And for those companies that still do not offer a free trail, they do have online product demonstrations for those who are interested.

I recommend: SynchronEyes provides a free trial of its software. You can also check out the programs from Thinkwave for no charge.

Consider web-based classroom management software

Resources online can be very convenient for teachers on the go. Often, teachers need to be away from the classroom computer when they grade papers, for instance. Unless the software is installed on multiple computers, there is no way to update unless you go with a web-based program, or software that has an online component. Choose classroom management software that's either web-based, or has web utilities that let you update remotely.

I recommend: RenWeb and Imperisoft are both companies that provide programs online or programs with online capabilities.

Find customizable classroom management software

Not all classrooms are created equal, and neither is classroom software. The most important aspect of classroom management software a teacher needs to look for is the ability to customize the program's features so that it best works for that particular classroom. Many programs come with customizable features, such as the ability to keep track of specific events and grades.

I recommend: Classroom management software programs from IQity and Asylum Software both have programs that are customizable for the classroom.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find classroom management software information at a variety of review sites. Reviews from fellow teachers are helpful, because they provide first-hand accounts of the products you may be considering.