Concept Mapping and Inspiration in the classroom

Being that all students learn and grasp concepts differently, having multiple ways of teaching material is a must.  As future teachers we must understand that all students’ cognitive learning is different and we have to adapt to their need.  Every student has the capability to understand and it is our job to discover the best way for the student to gain understanding.

 One particular approach is Concept Mapping.  Concept maps break down topics down to the smallest unit.  The map shows the different relationships between concepts.  I have always found concepts maps fun and enjoyable due to just how creative a student can get in producing a map.  Concept maps also enhance communication, collaboration, and creativity.  Concept maps just might be what finally breaks the barrier of understanding for a student. 

Inspiration is software that can be downloaded to the computer form the www.inspiration.com website.  Inspiration is real easy to use and free which is idea as a future teacher.  This software is student and teachers friendly and used to create different diagrams for learning. 

NETS and Common Core require this for technology learning.  They both have expressed their seal of approval for the software.  They push the importance of taking advantage of the free technology software    available. 

Introduction

My name is Shelby Hill and I am 23 years old.  I attend the University of Southern Mississippi in the hopes to gain a bachelors degree in Elementary Education.  I will also graduate being highly qualified in English and Social Studies.  I have a three year old, very active, daughter named Rylee Grace that is the light of my world.  I can honestly say that I enjoy the perks of technology and I think it is pretty amazing how far it has come over the years.  I do however get frustrated with the fact that as a 23 year old I feel that I am behind in the technology world.  My computer is years old and it not nearly as updated as the technology is that I will be using as a teacher.  That being said I can appreciate this class maybe more so than my peers would. 

The purpose to the Blogfolio is to reflect on the technological material that will be introduced and expected to be learned in the class.  The Blogfolio can be compared to a diary about how well the blogger is grasping the different concepts that will be learned over the semester.  I have already considered using a Blog to communicate with my future students parents.  This is a great way to mass communicate.