Concept Mapping in the Classroom with Inspiration Software

This paper gives an overview of the Inspiration Software, a package that is designed to facilitate the construction and use of concept maps in the classrdom. The first section discusses concept mapping, defined as any graphic production that is constructed specifically to represent knowledge. The following basic functions of Inspiration are then summarized: (1) diagramming; (2) rapid fire, i.e., a function that makes it easy to get ideas down as fast as possible; (3) moving a symbol; (4) adding unconnected ideas; (5) changing symbol shapes; (5) drawing a link; (7) adding text to a link; (8) scrolling and magnification; (9) formatting symbol text; (9) printing to fit; (10) switching between diagram and outline views; and (11) importing and installing graphics. (Contains 11 references.) (MES) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. 1 PERMISSION TO REPRODUCE AND DISSEMINATE THIS MATERIAL HAS BEEN GRANTED BY