Inspirational!

Today we looked at the Inspiration program, which allows you to create a mind map of various different things. In this respect, you can choose any topic and create the layout that best suits you.














You are also able to add sound bytes and also 'hidden' notes where more information can be found about the image by clicking on the icon niext to it.












There is also a word guide, where by typing in a word, you are given various synonyms and antonyms for that word. This would be useful in expanding a student's vocabulary and gaining a gretaer knowledge of the topic.

I think there are some real good merits of using a program such as this, with the main one being that students can brainstorm together before a topic is introduced or can use it to create a presentation from, especially with the hyperlinks, sound bytes and more information abilities of it. It would also be extremely good for students to plan assignments and structure their thoughts in a much clearer way.

From my experience, this program would also benefit children with special needs, such as autism, where they may be visual learners or have a dependency on computers. Such a program would allow students to create a level of work they could achieve on their own and then with support, possibly expand on it and create a writing piece.

I could definitely see myself using this program with any grade level in primary school and being able to use it throughout any subjects or unit. Using Inspiration is a unique way of teaching in that it breaks away from the traditional pen and paper method and allows a lot more interaction and conversation between students as they share their work much more simply.