Constructive Tools

 - Concept of constructive tools

- Reflection or write up for the constructive tool

ICT isn't just about finding information anymore. It's like a giant toolbox filled with awesome building blocks that let us actively create and shape the digital world. We can go from information consumers to builders, using ICT tools to Learn by Doing, Express Ideas Clearly and Work Together to Solve Problems.

These tools are packed with features to help us with:

1. Creativity and thinking skills

2. Analyze and Explore

3. Visualize Ideas

4. Construct learning materials for learners

5. Work Together Seamlessly

The impact is huge! From creating mind-blowing educational experiences to helping businesses develop products faster, ICT as a constructive tool is changing the game in many fields.

If I am to state few examples of constructive tools, there are:

1. Concept mapping tool (C-map)

2. Desktop Publisher

3. MS word

4. Camtasia Studio

5. Google classroom

Desktop Publisher, MS word, Camtasia studio and Google classrooms are commonly used tools. And for me I have heard of Concept mapping tools for the first time. C-map is a software tools that converts data into interesting infographics that can be easily read and visually understood. We can make web diagrams, chain diagrams and plenty more where we can make our ideas visually visible. 

Integrating CMAP in teaching and learning 

Imagine a classroom buzzing with active learning and collaboration. CMap can be your secret weapon for making this a reality. Here are some exciting ways to integrate it seamlessly into your teaching:

• Brain storm: Before diving headfirst into a new topic, use Cmap Cloud for a collaborative brainstorming session. Students can add central concepts and then branch out with their existing knowledge. This activates prior learning and sets the stage for deeper exploration as a class.
• Pre-Reading: Assign pre-reading material and have students create individual Cmaps summarizing key points and potential connections to what they already know. This helps them actively engage with the text and identify areas for further exploration
• Concept Development & Organization: After reading or lectures, empower students to create individual or group Cmaps to organize information. Encourage them to use visuals, colors, and connecting lines to represent relationships between concepts. This approach fosters deeper understanding and strengthens memory retention.
• Comparative Analysis: For comparing and contrasting concepts, create separate Cmaps with students adding details to each. Then, leverage the "merge" function to bring them together and visually highlight similarities and differences.
• Class Discussions: Turn Cmap Cloud into a dynamic visual anchor for class discussions. Project a student-generated Cmap or create one collaboratively on the fly to guide discussions and track key points. This keeps students engaged and visually reinforces learning.

By incorporating Cmap Cloud into your teaching, you'll be creating a classroom environment that fosters active learning, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of the curriculum. So, get ready to unleash the power of this innovative tool and watch your classroom transform!

I have designed the above diagram and let me share how I made the diagram and how I enjoyed making it. 

• first I made a Cmap account from: https://cmapcloud.ihmc.us/login.html
• then tap on 'start building your cmap. 
• 
• then click on new 'Cmap' under 'Action'

• Then you will be directed to a page where you can design you own map using the tools provided (top) in that page (blank spack).

Reflection on Camtasia

Camtasia also falls under the constructive tool. I went in with a basic understanding of screen recording, but Camtasia offered so much more. It felt like going from sketching with a crayon to wielding a digital paintbrush.

Let's start with the recording itself. Camtasia made it incredibly smooth. The ability to record my screen and webcam simultaneously was a game-changer. No more clunky editing to stitch the two pieces together later. Adding narration on the fly was also a breeze, and the editing tools allowed me to easily trim any stumbles or awkward pauses.

But where Camtasia truly shined was its ability to transform my basic screen recording into a visually engaging experience. Adding callouts, arrows, and text annotations kept viewers focused on the key points I was demonstrating. The transitions between scenes were smooth and professional, thanks to the pre-built options and the ability to adjust their speed. And let's not forget the magic of music and sound effects! A carefully chosen soundtrack added a layer of polish and kept the energy level high.

Overall, Camtasia helped me take my explainer video from a simple screen recording to a polished and informative piece of content. It was surprisingly user-friendly, even for a beginner like me. The intuitive interface and helpful tutorials made learning the ropes a breeze. Sure, there's a learning curve when it comes to exploring all the advanced features, but for this first project, Camtasia offered everything I needed to create a professional-looking video.

Here a video I made using camtasia:

So, the next time you use ICT, think beyond just searching. Look for the building blocks hidden within and unleash your creativity! We can all play a part in shaping the exciting future of the digital world with these powerful tools.