Simple Diagrams
http://www.go2web20.net/site/?a=SimpleDiagrams
Simple Diagrams is a great program to communicate and convey your ideas in a simple and fun way. As an educator this can be an effective tool to help students learn complicated skills and concepts that normally would take a long explanation in shorter amount of time. By the time a verbal or written explanation is used you may lose half your students. Because Simple diagrams uses symbols and pictures along with text you are reaching linguistic, spatial and logic learners. The above example simplifies and possibly conveys in a clearer manner what I am writing here in 250 words. This is a much more effective means of communication while the playful graphics helps to create a more memorable and enjoyable learning experience. In my classroom I could see using this software to create concept maps and brainstorm sessions. This would also be beneficial in creating detailed steps for concepts and lessons that may be difficult in a simplified manner. Often times in band we have many detailed steps and things we need to know in preparation for concerts and performances. Using this software will help communicate complex messages to parents and students. Some cons from using this software so far is that the free version does not allow to save and an annoying popup appears about every 5 minutes. You can only export to a PNG file and you can’t print which may reduce flexibility of output. However there are easy ways around this, it may just add more time and steps. Overall I was impressed with the simplicity of the application, ease of use and effectiveness in which it can be used to communicate messages.
