13126s

13126s

Student Presentation (20 minutes)

Jayneen Kehau Souza, Universit of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, jayneenk@hawaii.edu
 * Using Social Mindtools As a New Instructional Approach**

Abstract: This paper documents the results of an action research study focused on evaluating the effectiveness of using (Webspiration), a visual learning Web 2.0 social mindtool to foster collaboration among ninth and tenth grade geometry students in a private high school in Hawaii. Field notes and observations, daily reflections, a whole group discussion, and a post attitudinal survey were used to collect data. Students applied proven learning methods such as webbing, mindmapping, and diagramming to plan and organize ideas, visually communicate concepts, gather and keep track of research information, and think through projects and assignments. Classroom observations and feedback revealed that students were initially receptive and positive towards using an online tool to collaborate anytime anywhere. However, challenges with navigating through the menu bar and building content in real-time decreased motivation and intrinsic engagement. Future plans call for an increase in instructional class minutes to explore and navigate through unfamiliar software as well as to revisit the instructional approach. Despite several setbacks, this action research yielded valuable feedback that could assist the researcher and other educators in the integration of visual learning Web 2.0 social mindtools throughout various content areas.

All Audiences Webspiration, Social MIndtools, Web 2.0 Tool