By Mauricio Palli
When working on an assignment for TRDV 499, I stumbled on a few articles online that explored the idea of mind mapping and how it can increase student success rates while promoting engagement. I found this topic interesting, so I decided to research it a bit more. I found a pretty neat article via the Robert Morris Teaching Institute Lounge page (Click here) . This particular article explained how mind mapping is a learning technique that allows the student to explore different concepts while connecting them to create a bigger idea. Moreover, this behavior promotes higher-level critical thinking skills, and allows the student to think outside of the box. I also found the idea of using pictures in a mind map intriguing.
Let’s backtrack a minute to find out more about the individual who is responsible for this interesting and creative idea: author and educational consultant Tony Buzan. Tony came about this idea by studying how the mind works when looking at an idea or problem. He says “a mind map is a thinking tool that reflects externally what goes on inside your head”.
Mind mapping can be fun and exciting. One starts in the middle of a blank sheet of paper. In the middle of the sheet, you write down the main component or idea. This idea can be a new plan, a problem, a challenge, and so forth. Then you connect main branches to the main idea. These main branches can then be broken down into sub branches. According to Tony, these branches are curvy rather then straight because he believes that the brain focuses on one idea, which then explodes into multiple solutions or procedures (Click here).
Here is another example of a mind-mapping worksheet: 
Tony has been able to use his idea to develop a multi-million dollar industry, featured on his two websites. He is also the inventor of iMindMap5, which is a software package for developing unique mind maps. This software can be used on a PC, laptop, tablet, and even smartphones. Tony has also worked with multiple industries to show how mind mapping can work in the education, training, business, and corporate fields.
Now that you have a bit of background information regarding mind mapping, let’s revisit my findings on how this tool can be used for learning. Apparently, this important component allows students to recall information they were thinking about when creating the mind map. Many students at almost all levels are using this particular idea to assist them when working on a project or paper. Plus, creating a mind can lead to the engagement part of learning between students and groups. In a training session, one can use mind maps to create department unity. This can also lead to individuals working together to solve a problem or innovate a new concept.
There are a ton of free resources out there for instructors to use. There are also a few pay sites where you can design and purchase your very own mind map tool and tailor it for your class or lessons – if you have room in your budget. I also found a pretty cool video on YouTube (Click here) that explained visually how to create a mind map, featuring actual examples.
Overall, mind mapping is a great tool because it can connect multiple areas in the spectrum of learning. For more information on Tony Buzan’s ideas and software, visit his websites at:
