Visual Learning: Graphic Organizer - Kidspiration
This was a fun exercise in visual creativity. This project was an exploration of visual learning principles using the software Kidspiration. The goal was to investigate, learn and create a product using a graphic organizer program.
The implementation of a software program like this into a classroom setting is entirely dependent on the school. Either the school has it or they don't. My aim to teach in a rural school district may mean that I will not have extras like this type of software available for my students.
That being said, I am glad for the exposure to Kidspiration because it arms me with the knowledge that such a tool exists. If I come across a need for this in my classroom, I can search for free alternatives, use programs that my school does have like Word or Publisher and adapt them to suit the needs of my students, or even just find printable templates that will help organize the information graphically. Ultimately, I think it will always be a challenge to find the available tools that will best meet the needs of my students and this was a good exercise in experimenting with one such tool that is readily available.
The implementation of a software program like this into a classroom setting is entirely dependent on the school. Either the school has it or they don't. My aim to teach in a rural school district may mean that I will not have extras like this type of software available for my students.
That being said, I am glad for the exposure to Kidspiration because it arms me with the knowledge that such a tool exists. If I come across a need for this in my classroom, I can search for free alternatives, use programs that my school does have like Word or Publisher and adapt them to suit the needs of my students, or even just find printable templates that will help organize the information graphically. Ultimately, I think it will always be a challenge to find the available tools that will best meet the needs of my students and this was a good exercise in experimenting with one such tool that is readily available.
Click on the screen shot below to see a larger version of my bright and colorful Forest Ecosystem Food Web.
