I have just explored the Bubbl.us concept mapping tool and found it to be very useful. It was relatively easy to use and after exploring the different applications that it has, I was able to make a concept map based around art (pictured left - also view my Topic 1 Concept Map), a topic which I have vast knowledge in. I believe that concept mapping in the classroom can be very beneficial for students and that almost all topics can be explored using this simple tool. Ausubels (as cited in Mergel, 1998) states that concept mapping can be useful because it gives students an opportunity to link their prior knowledge to a topic and align themselves with it. In response to this, I believe that concept maps have the potential to be built upon as research is undertaken about a specific topic.I believe that Bubbl.us concept mapping can have many uses within the classroom. Students can initially brainstorm their ideas which requires them to think deeply and establish relationships between specific subject matter. I also think it is useful that Bubbl.us concept maps can be tweaked and modified with the click of a mouse. They can be saved and retrieved later when other information needs to be added to them.
References
Mergel, B. (1998). Instructional design and learning theory. Retrieved from http://www.usask.ca/education/coursework/802papers/mergel/brenda.htm#The%20Basics%20of%20Behaviorism