Z+File+-+Random+Fun+on+the+Web

=Welcome to the Z File!=

This is a page of random fun and serendipitous finds from around the web:
VOip - Voice over internet protocol - Use your computer like a phone - and call for free OR very cheaply: Skype – FREE download - http://skype.com/ AIM - America Online instant messenger - Free download http://dashboard.aim.com/aim

Visual Thesaurus: [|http:/visualthesaurus.com/]

CREATE FREE SURVEYS ONLINE: [|Survey Monkey] Take a survey and become part of the data: [|Educators and Databases]

Online Concept Mapping Tools
[|Mind Meister] [|Mind 42] [|Gliffy Flow Charts] [|Mindomo] [|bubbl.us Brainstorming]

Educational Resource Links
[|Concept Mapping Resources] [|The Concept Mapping Classroom] [|Compendium Institute]

Examples
[|Where do you live?]

=__SWOT ANALYSIS__=

Strengths:

 * 1) Good option for group brainstorms.
 * 2) Map creator receives email notification whenever a collaborator makes a change to the map.
 * 3) The video tutorial, with Mindmeister, makes the learning process easy.
 * 4) In Mindmeister, the customizing tools are easy to maneuver.
 * 5) Instant collaboration and publishing to a wiki or blog can be done easily.
 * 6) History provides some tracking of student input.

Weaknesses:

 * 1) I could not successfully get on Mindmeister...to activate my account the link did not work.
 * 2) Fees are required for some of the tools.
 * 3) Notes don't seem to appear when exported to .jpeg.
 * 4) Students can easily change content in collaboration mode.
 * 5) Will not format as paragraph. Text input is limited with free version.

Opportunities:

 * 1) Concept maps can be used for several concepts and mind map can be used for one concept.
 * 2) Alternative to Inspiration or other application mind mapping tools.
 * 3) Students can brainstorm topics as homework assignment ahead of class lecture or lesson.

Threats:

 * 1) Collaborators can sabotage maps because they have complete control while editing.
 * 2) Use of inappropriate language.
 * 3) Inviting others go share your map can eliminate unwanted input if you publish it on a wiki or blog.

=IDEAS FOR THE CLASSROOM=
 * Assign mind mapping brainstorm for homework to provide discussion points for the next class.
 * Floor plans are available in Gliffy and this could be used for students to collaborate together on projects in addition to flowcharts.
 * Create a web for each fact learned in a lesson. Each person must create an original fact.
 * Book mind map to come up with alternative endings to the story or a prequel/sequel.
 * After introducing a new topic, students must submit a fact learned. Since each fact must be original, students are motivated to get in there quickly to post ideas.
 * Create a character empathy log based on a video that the students have watched. Define key differences between characters.
 * Create a word family map.
 * Animal characteristics map - Example: student input all animals that walk or run.