Project COMPASS is a three year endeavor to develop and validate software and accompanying instructional materials designed to facilitate the integration of computer-based concept mapping in science, grades 4 through 12. Specifically, it was proposed that a Science Concept Mapping Companion would be developed for Inspiration, a powerfully flexible, graphics-oriented productivity tool that enables production and modification of visual-spatial displays of varying types and styles. The envisioned product would combine the flexibility of powerful tools usually found only in business, with the special needs of science teachers and students in varying disciplines.
Over the course of the three year project, five major objectives are to be accomplished: (a) develop software and accompanying instructional materials to facilitate computer-based concept mapping in science, (b) evaluate the efficacy of this concept mapping package for promoting "meaningful learning" in science at the elementary, middle and high school levels, (c) assess the extent to which this software can be transported to and implemented in science classrooms of varying types and levels, (d) describe the ways in which this concept mapping package is effective in improving instruction and promoting academic achievement in elementary and secondary schools, and (e) disseminate information about this product and its effects on learning science so that it can be adopted by teachers locally, regionally and nationally.
To accomplish these objectives Project COMPASS has five major phases: (a) materials design and development, (b) beta testing in schools, (c) field testing in schools, (d) evaluation of materials, and (e) dissemination. First year activities focused on Phase 1: Materials Design and Development and included (a) assembling a development team, (b) introducing science educators to Inspiration® and concept mapping, (c) writing specifications for the Science Concept Mapping Companion and accompanying materials, and (d) developing a beta version of the final program. Year 2 is focusing primarily on Phase 2: Beta Testing in the Schools and includes: (1) completing the beta version of the Science Concept Mapping Companion and accompanying materials, (b) training science educators to use the materials, (c) formative evaluation in the science curriculum at various levels, and (d) revision and refinement of the materials.