Brain storming is a well-used teaching technique. Isn’t it great when you find a new way to approach an old teaching strategy? Mind mapping online can be simple and quick, or well-developed and collaborative, depending on the site you choose to use. Students obviously benefit form seeing visual presentations of material, which helps them make connections and see relationships. This article will address three particular online mind mapping sites: Text 2 Mind Map, Mind42, and Mindmeister. Look below for a list of others.
Text 2 Mind Map is a simple and free site, with no sign-up. It also allows the user to create an image of the mind map for future reference. How can you use it? One idea is to project the site on your classroom whiteboard, and brainstorm with students. After this you can save it as an image file. This is a very, very easy site to use. (even those with less “technology know-how” will have an easy time) Younger students should be able to use this site as well, so why not use it as a homework assignment? http://www.text2mindmap.com
Mind42 is great for collaborating. As you prepare a mind map you can invite others to work on it. (all users must register, for free) You can attach files, images and even web sites. You can zoom, expand and collapse nodes (branches), and make your map as large and detailed as you like. This is a great alternative to PowerPoint presentations. Why not make review notes for tests? Have a look at this sample we made on Saving Energy at School. http://mind42.com
Mindmeister is similar to Mind 42, allowing images, links, audio-video, and attachments. It allows for collaboration, and also has iPhone and iPad applications. http://www.mindmeister.com/
Take a look at Mind Tools and their great description of mind maps and the benefits of mind mapping. (which you can pass on to your students) Mind Tools has a free iPhone application as well. Have a look at these other mind mapping web sites.
Other sites to consider:
- Wisemapping (freeware)
- Freemind (freeware)
- Mindomo (free version with limited features)
Take some time this summer and give a few of these sites a try. Your students will enjoy brainstorming that much more!
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