what exactly is a mind map

Mind Mapping

Source: http://www.mindtools.com/media/Diagrams/mindmap

What exactly is a mind map?

“An easy way to get information

IN and OUT of your brain more effectively”.

“A really good way to make notes really quickly”.

“A quick and efficient way to

brainstorming to help you come up with ideas for a group

or individual project”.

“In short it is a good way to organize and understand

information”.

How are mind maps constructed?

Words

Using …

Colours

____ Lines ____

andPictures

This Tony Buzan who is a founding proponent of mind mapping principles.

Source: Larryhendrick.co.uk

For example:____ Lines ____

WordsColours

Pictures

Did you know …

“The brain cells that do the thinking (called neurons) make up one hundred billions cells. Each one contains a vast electrochemical complex and powerful micro-data-processing and transmitting system that, despite its complexity, would fit on the head of a pin. Each of these brain cells looks like a super-octopus, with a central body and tens, hundreds of thousands of tentacles”.

Extracted from: Tony Buzan’s The Mind Map Book

So as you can see the mind needs as much help as possible to process information efficiently.

This is how mind mapping can help you.

How are mind maps used for brainstorming in problem based learning?

They are used to help individuals consolidate ideas and thoughts. The mind map can act as a ‘hub’ for ideas and thoughts. In short it acts as a depository to keep them together safe all in one place.

Also: Mind maps are really get at helping individuals ‘think’ within a group work context.

Mind Map can be seen as the ‘cog’ that creates your

ideas.Mind maps can help your group get into a frame of mind that encourages freedom to express your ideas on paper.

In short it helps you think ‘inside’ and ‘outside’ the box producing

alternatives, ideas and solutions to problems.

To summarise mind maps are:

Diagrams made up of colours, pictures, lines and words.

A tool to help provoke thinking individually and in a group.

A depository where ideas can be stored and even added to.

Click on “Put Name of Resource” to find out how construct a mind map.