I did it! After many tries and frustration with Bubble-us, i finally managed to make a more simple version of a concept map. I found this version more user friendly to my abilities with computers and consequently would be my first choice in the classroom.
This exercise shows that when introducing new technology to the classroom, you personally need to have a reasonable grasp of how to use it.
Concept maps resonate with cognitivism whereby the students' prior memory of a topic can be activated to set them up for further learning. They scaffold or organise the learning. Concept maps are a great way to begin engaging students and link ideas. When used with enthusiasm by the teacher they can induce responses from students with differing thought processes and learning styles. Their simplicity enables duplication to be used as a reference guide for the lesson or unit. They can also provide the teacher with a guiding framework in which to teach the content.
Hi Michael,
ReplyDeleteI was very frustrated with the Bubbl.us program as it took me ages to work out how to use it. This made me form a negative perception of the program and its use within the classroom. But, you raise a great point - this could be a useful tool if used "with enthusiasm by the teacher". I need to mindful over the duration of this subject to watch my attitudes and perceptions so that I can teach these tools enthusiastically. Just because I didn't find it easy to use and useful, that doesn't mean that my students will feel the same.
Great point - Thanks for the wisdom.
Lynn
Thanks for the feedback Lynn. I feel that the better we understand any ICT learning tools and their usefulness in the classroom, the better we can teach with them with that 'enthusiasm'. Yes, it is up to our attitude and perception to change, acquire and integrate them into our schema well enough to be able to use the technology meaningfully.
ReplyDeleteHi Micheal,
ReplyDeleteI came across some similar problems and felt the same way, but after some consideration I thought that it might be a useful tool if students used it more to organise and consolidate their knowledge of a topic rather than brainstorm. A possible application could be through an expert jigsaw activity where students research different topics then go back to their home group and share their knowledge and then collaboratively consolidate their ideas using a concept map. Just an idea for thought...
Michael,
ReplyDeleteAs a digital immigrant, I also found the concept mapping tool very frustrating to use. As my E-Learning journey is transforming my attitude and perceptions about learning through ICT's is also transcending. It is now my decision and inspiration to be that enthusiastic teacher you mentioned.