Ok, so I know we have use mind mapping tools before in this EMDT program. But I have to say, Mind42.com is the best mind mapping tool have have come across. It is so easy. It literally is just click click click. On the other mind mapping tools I've used, there is lots of right clicking to get options to show, whereas with mind42.com the editing option appear as soon as you create a line. Even the sign up was quick.
Another reason I like this mind mapping tool best is that with other tools, I have to draw the line from one idea to the next and move the ideas around to fit. After a while it looks very sloppy. Mind42.com automatically branches off your ideas with just a simple click of the "node as child" or "node as sibling."
But, the biggest selling point for me was all the extra options (still easily used, very self-explainitory). For each node you can attach links to web sites that relate to your idea. For example my mind map was about Beowulf (the novel), so I attach a link to the Wikipedia site for Beowulf. I did the same thing for the node about epic heroes and Anglo-Saxons. You can also link this mind map to other mid maps you create. Like, I could also use this to make a mind map for each novel I teach in my senior English class and then link them all together through a separate mind map dealing with the central themes we discuss in each. You can also set an icon or add an image from the web to identify your node. Plus if you mess up, there is a simple "undo" button on the left.
This mind map can be collaborated on, by students in my case, if they had access. Then as a class they could build the mind map with details and links. I have absolutely found my new classroom toy for both my students and me. I can't wait to use it Tuesday as a review tool before midterms.
Helo Heidi,
ReplyDeleteI am glad that you are ahead of the class in keeping up with our topics...
I had some difficulty finding other who had actually done their pages and all today.
I agree Mind Mapping is a bit over done, and well finding the right tool is the key to getting the job done, isn't it. I like that the tool has external influence. As a non-teacher, I can appreciate your interest n having the kids be able to collaborate with you. This must help with their learning and brainstorming of ideas. As well as help to focus on the class ideas as they are progressing throughout the year.