Inspiration

I choose to blog about Inspiration 9 software, this program is used for visual mapping, outlining, writing and making presentations. The software can be used to organize thoughts in the form of concept maps and diagrams.

Student usage includes building graphic organizers, such as: concept maps, webs, mind maps and idea maps. Essentially this software can be used to brainstorm, plan, organize, think, outline, and present.



The advantages to this software are endless, it allows you to structure your thoughts. As you create your concept map, the program simultaneously creates an outline of your map. After your map is complete, you can switch over to Outline View and add additional information to your outline to help write a research paper or prepare a presentation. The software is user-friendly with several functions comparable to Microsoft Word. I especially like the Word Guide function which serves as a thesaurus and dictionary. The Presentation function is also useful in that you can add slides and transitions, similar to PowerPoint. The only disadvantage is the cost of the program, by visiting the freetrial page, you can download a 30 day trial. After the 30 days, if you would like to purchase the program it cost $69.00.



The audience for this tool is students grade 6-Adult, you can use Kidspiration for lower grades. In my opinion, 4th and 5th grade students could use the software with minor help from their teacher.



To learn more about Inspiration, you may view an introductory video about Inspiration at the following website:
Inspiration video

To read about this product:
link to Inspiration details

To buy this product:
Inspiration store



As a college student, I utilize this program frequently to work on the many papers and projects that coincide with Early Childhood Education. I absolutely love this program and would recommend it to anyone who is a teacher or student. I plan to use Inspiration within my future classroom to help my students organize their thoughts and ideas.