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MindMapping
MindMapping
by: Aleisha Nabower, MD, MHPTT
Mind mapping, also known as concept mapping is the use of technology to visually represent relationships between concepts and pieces of knowledge to further deepen understanding and allow for clinical application of knowledge. It can be a useful active learning tool to help learners understand relationships between concepts as they transfer clinical knowledge into practice. However, the traditional pen and paper version has limits as to how many people can work on/utilize it and how information can be presented. Electronic concept maps increase accessibility, allow the incorporation of a variety of multimedia components easily, and can be fluid overtime allowing editing by multiple people separated in time and space
Ways to Use Mind-Mapping
Ways to Use Mind-Mapping
Classroom
Classroom
Pre-classroom assessment: students can mind-map pre-class readings
In-class activity: students work in groups to develop relationships between ideas or within a topic
Assessment: students create mind-map of content and may turn in as assignment or may use as a study tool
Bedside
Bedside
Instructor led: Use as road-map for introduction, discussion, application of concept
May work through a mind-map of a particular concept periodically over the course of the day, week or full rotation
May consider it a “shareable chalk talk”
Student-led: Students may develop mind-map of assigned reading or topic and use as basis of bedside discussion and teaching
Assessment: students create mind-maps of different assigned concepts to further learning. May share with classmates for comprehensive study tool, content repository for comprehension and application
There are a wide variety of platforms available for creating electronic mindmapping, we will review a few of them here, highlighting the key differences. All of them have free versions that can stand on their own for most everyday uses, allowing you to create and share up to 3 mindmaps, but there are options for paid packages with expanded features (noted with a *) as well. All of the platforms allow for varying degrees of collaboration. Most free versions allow you to export text files or share the map via a link or email. However, the paid versions expand to multiple export formats.
Mindomo is the only platform with options built specifically with the educator in mind, including the ability to create assignments, with grading and immediate feedback*, and the option for students to access the platform without having to create their own account*, as well as the ability to integrate into multiple learning management systems/G suite/office 365* and Microsoft teams. It allows you to embed videos and web links directly onto the mindmap by inputting urls, or uploading*. You also can record upload or record audio within the platform*. When collaborating it has a chat feature as well as gives you the ability to assign tasks to different group members. Additionally, it is the only platform that offers a desktop application that allows you to continue working even when not connected to the internet*. It also has the most options with up to 12 export formats*.
Resources to get started:
Compare versions (3 tiers + institutional option)
While MindMeister does not have the assignment/grading options it has a simple cloud or app based interface that easily allows for collaborating, including a chat feature and the ability to assign tasks although you do have to link to a different program, Meister task [OA1] to do so. It attaches videos and links to other websites, but you cannot see them without clicking into the attachment. There is an option though for uploaded photos to be embedded within the map*. Allows for export to PDF, word or PowerPoint or for a printable option*. Integrates with google workspace and allows for custom branding to be included.*
Resources to get started:
Compare versions (3 tiers + institutional option)
Lucidchart is a web and mobile app based platform that allows you to create images, flowsheets, concept maps, org charts, and Venn diagrams. Different from the previous two platforms, the free version does allow you to print. You are also able to upload photos and link to webpages or other pages within the chart. You cannot however add video/audio. It is able to integrate with Google drive/classroom, Canvas, Microsoft 365*, OneDrive, Microsoft word and PowerPoint. You can share with others via email or a link and it has team management features* including: call to me function, revision history. Like the other options it has a presentation feature*, but only in the paid version.
Resources to get started:
Compare Versions (Free, individual, team, or institution)
Coggle is a browser based tool that only requires a Google login to get started. It has the simplest interface, allowing for the creation of simple maps that can be saved as an image, pdf, text, or Visio file or shared via a link. You can link to other websites and upload photos but there are not video or audio options. You can collaborate with others by adding them via email (must make an account) or a link* including a chat and revision history feature. One downside is it has fewer icon/line styles/shape options and you get less control over line paths than other free versions. You also have an option to edit offline using the app*.
Resources to get started:
Compare Versions (3 tiers + institutional)
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