bubbl.us

=[|bubbl.us]: Online concept mapping=

__Here is bubbl.us' self described content description:__ "Bubbl.us is a simple and free web application that lets you brainstorm online."

It is a concept mapping web 2.0 application, similar to Inspiration, that allows the user to make graphical representations of ideas. Bubbl.us calles these concept maps "mind maps."

media type="youtube" key="AllXU_3nktU" height="344" width="425" Bubbl.us Basics: Brainstorming and Mind-mapping Online, from YouTube so watch the video and go on bubble.us and make a mind map.

= Resource Links =
 * [|bubbl.us features]
 * [|The Mind Mapping Software Blog]
 * [|Solution Watch] blog entry for bubbl.us
 * [|bubbl.us tutorial on Slideshare]
 * [|bubbl.us in Learning]
 * Web 2.0 Teaching Tools __[]__
 * Classroom 2.0 Forum __[]__
 * Teachers and Computers Blog __[]__

__Strengths__

 * Free version of concept mapping software that otherwise would require installation on a computer locally as well as an expense.
 * Signing up is a one step process that is easy and free
 * Invitations can be extended to friends or individual students to participate in a collaborative concept map.
 * Concept maps can be saved as an image, embedded in a blog or website, emailed, or printed.
 * Color coded levels of hierarchy.
 * Intuitive interface.
 * An easy to use workspace that allows ideas to be manifested visually through concept mapping
 * User friendly with simple pop up tools for easy editing which means no toolbar overload
 * Simple and fast saving and loading
 * Line labels and arrows to define and clarify connections
 * Good sorting tools for group brainstorm ideas
 * Kid-friendly
 * Helps organize thoughts and generate ideas
 * Encourages risk- taking
 * Incorporates multiple intelligences
 * Good tool for visual and kinesthetic learnings
 * Can be used at all grade levels; wide range of simple mind-mapping to more complex mind-mapping

__Weaknesses__

 * Does not support incorporation of images.
 * Commenting difficult to moderate, especially if a lot of users are contributing.
 * Limited bubble shapes.
 * Free but need to have an account
 * Although bubbles can be dragged around they are static in the sense that they do not allow for animation or embedding of multimedia ( a key attraction for students with deep sensory appetites)
 * The free version only allows for 3 saved mind maps. Need to pay for unlimited number of mind maps.

__Opportunities__

 * Cost is not an issue.
 * Collaboration over local or global distances possible.
 * Capability to print what is created.
 * This tool helps students to conceptualize and practice the skills of brainstorming, idea generation, idea organization and peer collaboration
 * User can brainstorm assignment individually or collaborate with groups
 * P romotes student creativity, critical thinking, team work, and effective communication skills
 * Can be used as an out-of-school tool for students

__Threats__

 * Contributions are not attributed to the user that makes them. This opens the door to destructive vandalism or the possibility that inappropriate content could be posted.
 * Easy to collaborate but hard to keep control of edited page.
 * Since it allows for only 3 saved mind maps, the user will be unable to edit a mind map that has been created if the map was deleted to do additional mind maps. As a result, the user would need to create the entire mind map over again.

= Ideas for the Classroom = //Communication and Productivity//
 * Brainstorm group project assignments and discussion
 * Create timeline for group project management
 * Can be used as a pre- and post- topic assessment tool; create mindmap showing what students know before the lesson and one showing what they have learned

//Reading/Language Arts//
 * Mind map a book chapter or entire book instead of outlining in the traditional sense.
 * Mapping tools can be used to describe the attributes of characters and settings in literature
 * Show character development by mapping traits to characters in a story
 * Utilize as a graphical representation of sequence of events
 * Utilize with students as a lesson summation tool
 * Utilize with students as a note organization and study tool
 * Vocabulary lesson can be used with this.
 * Create word webs to share with classmates who may have related words
 * Introduce note-taking strategies to analyze literature
 * Use as a writing graphic organizer by creating the concept map and then using it to compose the paragraph
 * Students can explore vocabulary by making root word trees (also good for struggling readers and ELL students)

//Math//
 * Solve equations by different methods
 * clarify the relationship of shapes such as quadrilateral, parallelogram, rectangle, square, rhombus
 * classify the different types of triangles and their side and angle properties

//Science//
 * Flow-chart style mapping of problem solving strategies.
 * Science Processes such as Precipitation Cycle can be illustrated.
 * Show relationships such as classification of living and nonliving, classification of animals

//Social Studies//
 * Individual student can reflect lesson learned for a specific subject.
 * Students can make a family tree when studying family heritage
 * Students (individually or in groups) can make a timeline for a specific historical period or event

//Visual and Performing Arts//
 * Students can use mapping in Performing Arts for both scene and character analysis
 * Resource can be used to storyboard ideas for scripts in playwriting workshops
 * Student actors can map out positive and constructive criticisms of scenes and performances

//Other Subject Areas//
 * [|Mind Mapping your sermons] (an unexpected search result)
 * (Add more ideas here.)