Bubble us - Brainstormers heaven

Have just been experimenting with the bubbl us application. The concept map is an interesting learning tool. It really is a simple way of finding out just how much you know/have learnt about a given topic and how you organise/store that knowledge. Just now I have been developing a concept map of concept mapping. I have come to realise that i know very little regarding this tool. Below is my initial attempt.



From this attempt it is obvious that i have very little declarative knowledge sorrounding the topic. So i investigated online. The brief history of concept mapping was my first point of call. Concept maps were developed in relation to the findings of a Psychologist known as David Ausubel. Ausubel (1968), believed that learning occurs when new concepts or information are assimilated into existing knowlegde. Researchers (Novak & Musonda, 1991) used concept maps to identify the changes in students understanding of scientific knowledge. From this measuring idea grew a new tool for use within learning.
Another interesting article that came up was Chang, Sung, and Chen's (2008) 'Learning through computer-based concept mapping with scaffolding aid'. Chang, Sung, and Chen (2008) outline several factors why online concept mapping benefits learning outcomes:
1. Engagement - provided by online concept mapping as our good friend Prensky (2005) asserts as essentail for learning.
2. Scaffolded - Learners should be scaffolded when designing concept maps. Gradual development of information. Instant electronic feedback can be used in certain programs.
3. Self Assessment - Incomplete concept maps - Good way to for students to check their own learning. Also can be used as assessment piece.

The Voki experience

Watch this space

Wiki

Have just attempted my own Wikispaces page. Navigating was not as easy as i thought it would be, however the overall structure of the page seemed navigational.
Going to have a play with it later and hopefully can modify it to make it look a little more interesting.
During my last prac (a 6/7 class) the students created a Wiki page about phases of the moon. Most students were engaged and used the site to monitor their own learning. It did set up a slightly competitive nature and gave students a place to check their learning. When using a Wiki for student learning it is necessary to develop a criteria of expected content. Students can quickly start posting irrelevant or incorrect information. It would be useful to create a anonymous peer assessment aspect to such an activity to encourage constructive feedback regarding information uploaded (Boud, 1995). The collaboration aspect of a Wiki is probably the most important in relation to teaching. Giving student's a group activity that is posted online gives them a sense of responsibility. Mike Eisenberg (2001) created the Big6 Skills for solving an information problem. Creating a Wiki with a specific focus allows for ample experiences usings the first 3 skills: Task Definition, Information Seeking Strategies and Locate and Access.

A simple SWOT analysis of Blogging

When starting any new activity it is beneficial to do some brainstorming and build up declarative knowledge around that specific area (Marzano & Pickering, 2007). Therefore, my first post to the E- learning blog will be a quick and objective SWOT (Strenghts, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis in regard to blogging itself. Such an analysis will provide myself and other bloggers with some information about not only what blogging is, but what it is for and the many ways we can use blogging in a classroom setting.

Strengths

Blogging gives an equal chance of being heard.

Blogging can instil confidence in students who would normally not volunteer answers.

There is time for students to think about their learning and go at own pace.

Blogging can be done from the home and used as a homework activity.

Large amounts of information can be posted which students can access readily.

Weaknesses

Students can post irrelevant or inaccurate information.

Not all students will have access to the internet at home.

Students with diverse needs are not always included.

Opportunities

Blogging can help students to further develop their own identity.

Blogging requires students to use knowledge meaningfully and be introspective when actually detailing comments (thinking about your thinking).

Blogging results in a concrete record of individual and group thinking. It allows students and teachers to monitor and revise their learning or teaching.

It provides a good source of information about one's learning or teaching journey for reflection.

Threats

Potential for online bullying (flaming) to occur.

Conclusion

Overall blogging provides many opportunities for students and teachers alike to share a learning/teaching journey in a dynamic and accessible environment.