Popplet

• http://popplet.com
• Popplet is a tool that is utilized for the creation of various types of thinking maps and infographics. Users are able to customize content, size, and color easily as well as insert images/videos into their popplets. The website allows the user to create 10 “popplets” before having to pay for a subscription.  Creations can be saved to the website, printed, exported as pdf, jpeg, or png.

Pedagogical Ideas

Ideas for application in the online classroom:

• Create an Infographic: Students can select topic and create a public information poster.  The poster can contain background about the issue, why it is important, the cause of the issue as well as ways to help remedy the issue. This will demonstrate the student’s understanding of the topic as well as foster critical thinking when recommending remedies.
• Create a Study Guide: Students can create a thinking map to outline the week’s chapter(s) (or topic) as evidence that they did the required reading and demonstrate their understanding. This will enhance independent interaction with course material as well as foster test preparation/serve as a study aid.
• Create an Outline: Students can foster ideas for a final paper or other type of project/assignment. This will allow instructors to provide feedback as to whether the student is on the right track as well as get students thinking of the end project/paper ahead of time.
• Map out a Concept: As a group, students can be assigned a topic to map out and deliver to the rest of the class. This would be supplemental to the course materials for that topic and promote creativity and encourage networking.
• Create a Cumulative Poster: For courses that are pre-requisites, students can create a poster/infographic that encompasses the main ideas/concepts of the course to serve as a reference for their coming courses.  This will help students with the scaffolding process by encouraging students to review information as they progress in their educational career. 

How do you utilize this technology in your classroom?

Please share your thoughts, ideas and suggestions for utilizing this technology to foster effective teaching and learning.

How valuable is this technology for fostering teaching and learning?