I am looking for a simple software program that will allow me to enter
all my student names and then select one of them randomly whenever I
want. There used to be a website that did this, but I can't find it
anymore. I would prefer, however, that the software be on my computer
and not something I had to access over the web. I'd also, obviously,
prefer not to pay for software that has this function.

Hi mrbarr,

I believe I have located the ideal program for you, and it's free.

The Hat - Generate a random order from a list of any number of names.

"Just like pulling names from a hat to determine a random order for a
group of people, this program generates a random order from a list of
any number of names. Great for parents or teachers to assign a random
order in which to allow kids to do something such as play video games
or use the computer. Just enter any names you wish into the program
and click the 'Shuffle' button. The list of names is rearranged
rapidly and repeatedly in random order until the 'Stop' button is
clicked. At that time the list is displayed in a new random order and
can even be printed for future reference or just so noone forgets the
order that was determined. The list of names is optionally
automatically saved in the current order so that there is no need to
re-enter the names the next time the program is started. Can even show
special effects while shuffling names making it fun to use for kids
and grownups alike."

PC World Download 
http://www.pcwdld.com/education/kids/The-Hat.htm


Search criteria:
"random selector" software "random order" OR randomly
software "random order" OR "randomly selects"

I hope this is helpful. If you have any questions regarding my answer
please don't hesitate to ask before rating it.

Best regards,
Rainbow

---

Request for Answer Clarification by mrbarr-ga on 01 Oct 2004 04:27 PDT

I think that answer will be sufficient, but I was somewhat hoping for
the name that is choosen to appear in its own window or to be clear
indicated. The program "the hat" really doesn't do that. It just puts
a name first, and makes an order of the names put in. That will work
because it does in fact pick an order, but I was somewhat hoping to
isolate one name. Anything out there that does that?

---

Clarification of Answer by rainbow-ga on 01 Oct 2004 08:51 PDT

Hi mrbarr,

After more searching, I wasn't able to locate a software similar to
what you require besides "The Hat".

If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to ask and I
will do my best to assist you.

Best regards,
Rainbow

I think the answer I received was definitely satisfactory and promptly
provided. Thanks.