CONCEPT MAPPING SOFTWARE?? What is it and what are the benefits?

Concept mapping, often called graphic organizers, web and idea mapping or mind mapping has been around for quite some time.  Teachers have used the chalkboard and flip charts to draw symbols that represent concepts and ideas and then drawn arrows and lines indicating relationships between them .  Students have created them with paper and pencil.  The creation of concept mapping software has made it even easier to show thoughts and ideas graphically, and it has many advantages.  You no longer need to use an eraser or start over if you want to add to or change your concept map.  Using software allows you to easily modify and make changes.  Students can focus on their ideas instead of on drawing their diagrams.  Also, when used for brainstorming, ideas and thoughts can be typed in more quickly than if one were to write them out by hand.  The brainstorming concept map can then be printed out for everyone in the class. 

There are many benefits for students who use concept-mapping software. 

• It can help students generate ideas for writing assignments.  I’m sure you have heard comments from students such as, “I don’t know what to write about or I don’t know how to begin my story.”  With concept mapping software students can brainstorm individually or cooperatively to get their ideas down visually.  Next, they can organize these ideas to provide their framework for their composition. 

• It can help deepen understanding and clarify thinking, because students can visually see how new knowledge relates to existing knowledge and by helping students see the connection between ideas. Visual diagrams reveal patterns, interrelationships, and interdependencies. 

• It can help students organize information.  A science teacher found that his students were feeling overwhelmed in class.  They took notes and studied for tests, but struggled with the process of organizing information.  The teacher found that after the students were taught how to use concept-mapping software to record important information and prepare for tests, their test scores improved 

Teachers have found many uses for computer-generated concepts maps, as well.  Lesson plans, seating charts which incorporate pictures, and curriculum plans can all be easily created and modified using concept mapping software.

The most widely used concept mapping software programs in schools today are Inspiration and Kidspiration. Kidspiration is geared toward K to fifth grade students, while Inspiration is geared toward fourth through adult.   Both these programs are user-friendly and are scientifically supported by current research.  They both include many graphics and already created templates that teachers will find useful.  Inspiration Software, Inc. has an excellent website  (www.inspiration.com) that comes with many good examples and tutorials. You can even download a fully functioning 30-day trial copy.