Nowadays, in our progressive society, the use of pen and paper is drastically decreasing; while the use of technology as a replacement is inevitable - especially in the classrooms! The use of computers as a writing substitution is no longer viewed in the negative light (except maybe in the eyes of the 'old school' teachers). Online blogging is a fun and simple way of incorporating a mix of creativity (i.e. design) and literacy skills (i.e. wide selection of text types) to be expressed for the chosen audience to see. Moreover, blogging to the world could potentially build on presentation and communication skills! As this is my first attempt at an online blog, I will experience first-hand all the pros and cons it has to offer.
This image is an example of the online blogging process, using Blogger.com.
Introduction to Inspiration (Concept mapping)
One of the essential strategies that children are learning in the classroom is brainstorming; this process enables the children to truly engage in the process of exploring an idea or topic, while simultaneously reflecting on their work progress. In addition, the completed concept map (or mind map) provides guidance in report writing or presentation. The Inspiration program is simple and easy to use. The images on the left are samples of what the students can create to explore an idea or topic.
During my teaching rounds, I was amazed at how much the preps and grade ones know about technology (computer use).
Every week they have ICT sessions where they learn how to use different software and explore educational websites. Unfortunately, Inspiration was not one of the programs they were familiar with, but they had previously learned how to create a simple mind map using Microsoft Word.
I believe that this Inspiration program is easy enough for young students to use, however, for those perfectionists (like myself), most of their time may be spent on the layout design and perhaps how straight the arrows are. I would recommend teachers to set a strict time limit and perhaps explain what the main focus is with this program. Great to use in the classroom!
