ALTERNATIVE SOFTWARE PACKAGES

While this particular project focuses primarily on the use of the Inspiration and Kidspiration software package, other valuable concept mapping software packages exist.  Educators interested in pursuing the use of computer-generated concept maps should investigate these other options prior to purchasing a particular package.

·                   MindJet – www.mindjet.com – this concept mapping tool may be more appropriate for secondary and college students, but it provides and alternative view of mapping as well.  Free 30-day trial available!

·                   Pacestar software – free 30 day trials available – try it before you buy it policy – aimed more at businesses, but could be used by schools, particularly secondary schools.  According to the website “EDGE Diagrammer is all you need for block diagrams, flow charts, org charts, family trees, data flow diagrams and more” (http://www.pacestar.com/edge/index.html).