Have you ever found yourself doodling instead of concentrating on taking notes? Well, when it comes to mind mapping, scribbling is exactly what you should do!
The benefits of mind mapping in the classroom
As teachers, we are always trying to innovate in the classroom and find the best method for our students to learn easily and efficiently. And this is where the mind mapping technique can help both teachers and students. Thanks to mind mapping software, creating a mind map online is very easy.
While some learn best by taking notes during class, others do so when they can put all the information and ideas graphically, visualizing their thoughts and putting them on paper.
This is a tool used to create, think, organize, take notes, and generate ideas.
What are the mental maps?
A mind map is a visual thinking tool or a diagram to represent tasks, concepts, or elements linked and organized around a central concept or theme.
Because it is an activity that is both analytical and artistic, it makes our brain work in a more diverse and complex way, helping in all its cognitive functions, and best of all, it is fun!
If you are interested in topics related to memory, learning, and concentration, I recommend this article where we bring you 4 ways to exercise memory and concentration.
How to create a mind map?
The most basic way to create a mind map is with a pencil and paper or aboard.
- The main concept
First, you have to determine the main purpose of your mind map and write it down. All mind maps start with a central idea in the middle, something that you want to explore more deeply. This idea will become the central theme of the diagram. Because mind maps start from the inside and expand outward, it is necessary to start in the center of the paper.
- Add main ideas around the main concept
These ideas must be hierarchical and in accordance with what you want to deepen. Don’t worry about including a lot of details, keywords and short phrases are more than enough.
- Connect these ideas with lines
These links are the key to mind maps, as they allow us to visualize the connections and the hierarchy of ideas.
- Keep adding branches
Add ideas and connections to be even more specific if necessary, always showing a radial hierarchy. Be sure to organize your information with the most important ideas closer to the center, while the most specific details further away from it.
When developing mind maps it is important to:
Capitalize main ideas.
You can use images, texts, and symbols to get creative.
Use different colors to stimulate the visual and help group ideas.
Provide as many visual cues as you can to emphasize important points.
Use curved lines to connect ideas.
Use keywords or condensed phrases.
Most importantly, create your own style and be creative.
We hope this post was informative! Have a nice day!