Today I attempted using the online program text2mindmap to create a concept map. At first, I had no idea how to use the program however the easy to read instructions made it easy for me to work out the process and come up with my own map! In my opinion, concept mapping is such an effective way of expression thoughts and ideas, and can even be used as a planning process for students. Within the classroom, concept mapping can be used in a variety of Key Learning Areas. This is so, because concept mapping can be adapted to suit whichever topic is being explored in that subject area; how good is that! Within the classroom environment, I envisage that concept mapping could be successfully implemented as both a whole class activity and also as an individual activity. As a whole class, concept mapping is successful for brainstorming activities, where many ideas and suggestions from students need to be collated and organised together. On an individual basis, I can see that concept mapping would be highly effectively used:
1. As a planning tool for students. Allowing students to outline all of their ideas on a topic, using a concept map, before commencing the task or assessment.
2. As a tool for reinforcing new knowledge and reflecting. The teacher could ask students to construct a concept map outlining all of the new knowledge learnt from the previous topic covered.
In experimenting with concept maps, I also explored using the bubbl.us online program. I found this program much easier to use and manipulate, and due to the colours and formats, I would advise that this is a more applicable program to use for younger primary school students. Whilst text2mindmap created a good concept map, I think bubbl.us would be easier for students to understand and more engaging. After exploring these tools, I would most certainly implement their usage in my classroom environment!
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ReplyDeleteHi Kate,
ReplyDeleteHow fastastic are these concept map websites!
I agree that concept maps would be extremely effective when used in learning environments as a planning tool and as a tool for reinforcing new knowledge and reflecting.
One of the main aspects I loved about these websites was that they can be effectively used in any year level.
I also agreed with your comment about bubbl.us and how it would appeal more to younger grades.
Since you are also specialising in early childhood, I thought the concept mapping (as a whole class) would be a very effective tool to use to model the process. What do you think?
Thankyou for your comment Emily! Yes I agree, these websites are fantastic!
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, in my early childhood classroom I have come to know that it is imperative to use modeling of a process of task, in order to clarify the information/expectations to the students, before they are capable of completing the task. So I think using these websites as part of a modeling process is a great idea!