When I was younger, after studying topics / chapters for cxc and A levels I would summarise and make notes using flow diagrams, bubbles with connecting lines etc. This helped me to capture the content in an organised form on one sheet of paper making revision much easier. Only recently I realised I was using the technique of concept mapping. This strategy was never taught to me but I am glad that I was able to discover it all on my own.
A lot of information is available on how to use concept maps accurately in instruction to obtain maximum benefit. It can be used as a pre-reading instrument, during reading and after reading to capture the essence of the content. It not only organises information but it helps the students to connect and link the known to the unknown. Webspiration is the perfect tool to aid with designing and creating concept maps. It is a programme that every teacher should become acquainted with.
Hi Vanessa, from my experience, teachers in earlier times used similar diagrams which they referred to as flow charts. I want to believe that the term concept map may be quite recent but the concept the same. However, I enjoy practicing with Webspiration; it is so motivating. I often think about the extent to which our students could be motivated using this programme and the consequences for learning. I have experience some difficulty with transferring information from webspiration to words and even sending an email. It would seem that it might be pointless doing that since once the person you are sending the information is connected to webspiration they can receive and edit the information. It is certainly a great tool that teachers can use to enhance the learning process.
ReplyDeleteI know the feeling. This is truly an excellent tool for reducing the copius notes from content areas such as science and social studies and to help students to see the flow and linkages among concepts.
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