Module 6

Bubbl.us is an easy-to-use mind mapping programme which I have used before. However, a programme called Inspiration 8 which we have on the library computers at our school is, in my opinion, a much better programme- albeit at a price. Some of my students have recently used Inspiration 8 to create mind maps examining the impacts of natural hazards in Australia. One feature in Inspiration 8 is that, in addition to the mind map, there are links behind the mind map to organise notes. Well worth a look... there is a tutorial on the Atomic learning link on the home page of this Web 2 course.

Using the glogster programme was great fun and I am sure the students would enjoy all the options available to them. It allows for creativity while presenting information. My fear is that the students will be more focused on the development of the product, in this case the poster, rather than the information presented.

I tried to put a link here to the glogster that I created but I could not copy the link across... had a few attempts. Quite frustrating after the fun of creating.

Module 5

I have used both podcasts and clips from you tube in my classroom. They have been a source of information and have more fully engaged students in the learning process. With the exception of one attempt to use movie maker to create a video in small chapters with groups creating each chapter (ended up a complete disaster!!), I have not had students "creating" the information presented. The students have been passive consumers of the media.
Having undertaken this module, I intend to have my students as active participants in creating podcasts. This can be done either as an individual or group task. Students would be free to listen to the podcasts in a range of locations including while travelling to and from school.
The use of podcasts could also be an effective way of recording group discussions and interviews while undertaking research. Students would have ownership of their ideas.