Mind Maps are increasingly used as a tool to improve eLearning, understanding and memory through the visual representation of information. Online mind maps are gaining popularity due to their ease of use, accessibility and ability to be used to transform eLearning into an active process. Students, teachers and others interested in eLearning can benefit from using Mind Maps to boost productivity. The discussion below explores the benefits of using online mind maps for eLearning.
How Mind Maps Can Be Used As An Effective Tool For eLearning
- Planning
Mind Maps are the perfect tool for creating a learning plan; whether it’s planning your curriculum, breaking down a particular subject or simply to map out an essay or exam answer. Visual learners will especially appreciate the structure and layout of information on a Mind Map which are appealing and easy-to-understand. Online Mind Maps have an added advantage in that they can be accessed from anywhere at any time, meaning peace of mind if you’ve forgotten what topic you had planned to focus on. - Collaboration
Online mind mapping software adds an extra element to the advantages of using this learning tool; collaboration. Ideas, notes and work can be shared among those learning similar topics and in the best position to work together to produce a valuable library of useful information. Not only does this lighten workload and stress, it also creates synergy where sparks of possibilities can fly. - Participation
Mind Maps can be used as interactive resources which can transform a classroom or a discussion. As discussed above, Mind Maps can be used as a brainstorming tool for both individuals and groups through the sharing of new ideas which can ignite sparks of possibilities. This enhances the e-learning experience by providing a unique resource to unlock creativity and express ideas intuitively and quickly. - Exam Preparation
Mind Maps, and in particular online Mind Maps, have the potential to improve learning and contribute to exam success. Seth Godin wrote in his book Stop Stealing Dreams, “The magic of connecting dots is that, once you learn the technique, the dots can change but you’ll still be good at connecting them.” Mind Maps provide the ideal opportunity to identify these connections and give a deeper understanding. - Flipping the Classroom
The new buzzword in education, flipping the classroom, encourages an innovative way of learning using technology. In the flipped classroom model, students learn their lessons before they come to class using videos, social media or other online resources and participate in activities while in class. Utilizing education technology both in-class and at home opens up many possibilities for different types of learning. Online Mind Maps enrich the learning process in a flipped classroom as they reinforce student’s prepared lesson notes in the classroom and can generate discussion and participation in class.
Are you interested in using online mind maps to improve your learning? Take advantage of free online mind mapping software which are perfect tools for easily connecting ideas, collaborating with others and unlocking your creativity.
Creating a mind map online means you can tailor the content to your needs, edit your notes at any time and save time drawing out a map. Use technology to your advantage by creating mind maps online! See below ExamTime's interactive Mind Map, press the "Play" button to watch it come to life.