WEEK 1

During the second part of the class we learned how to create a mind map using "Inspiration 8.0 IE". Although there are hundreds of different templates we each learned how to set up a basic mind map and build upon our knowledge and confidence with the program. Trial and error is the best way to learn any new concept.

Inspiration 8.0 keeps children interested and allows them to put their ideas into creative and vibrant ways This is an extremely effective technique to keep children interested and engaged in classroom activities. Inspiration 8.0 is extremely versatile as it can be used for all subject areas - English, Mathematics and Humanities.

Week 1 - Part 2

Today was our first Technology lesson with Greg. During today's class we were introduced to the "Blogger.com" concept and taught how to set up our own blogs. Greg discussed all the valuable aspects of having a blog as a teacher, such as, easy communication between collegues, classroom topics and exercises and other interewsting and creative ways to teach and learn.

I feel that the use of ICT in education is imperative for individual growth and continual learning for both the student and the teacher.

It is great to use a classroom tool such as Inspiration 8.0, becase it allows the children to think they are playing when in fact they are learning and building upon thier technology and other various developmental skills.

After today's class and been introduced to the concept of the "blog" i am extremely excited to learn about more indepth ICT concepts and tools to use in education.

In conclusion, an overview of today's class included: an introduction to Inspiration software concept, mapping and thinking curriculum tools software, minin Inspiration task and the set up and (ongoing) development of our individual blogs.