Online+Mind+Mapping+Tools

By David Kapuler

Brainstorming/mind mapping has been an educational technique that has been around since the beginning of cognitive thought. "A mind map is a diagram used to represent words, ideas, tasks, or other items linked to and arranged around a central key word or idea. Mind maps are used to generate, visualize, structure, and classify ideas, and as an aid in study, organization, problem solving, decision making, and writing." ( [|Wikipedia] )

This is a tool that facilitates ideas and is collaborative in nature. With the use of Web 2.0 technology, this concept has evolved into an ideal 21st century technology for education. Here are some great resources for the classroom: 1. [|Slick Plan] - What's not to like? Easy to use, create beautiful flow charts, then embed to a site. 2. [|Thinklinkr] - Real-time collaborative site where users brainstorm and create a mind map. 3. [|Webspiration] - The popular desktop application (Inspiration) is now the web... nuff said. 4. [|Diagrammr] - Quite simply the easiest mind mapping site to use; no registration is necessary, then share the URL w/ others. 5. [|Imagination Cubed] - Nice looking site that is ideal for interactive whiteboards with the ability to draw your own mind maps. 6. [|Edistorm] - Real-time mind mapping with sticky notes. 7. [|Education Eye] - A great way to brainstorm with this innovative search engine. 8. [|Mind42] - Nice collaborative mind mapping site that is easy to use. 9. [|Mindmeister] - Beautiful looking mind mapping site with the ability to embed into a site. 10. [|Mindomo] - One of the most detailed mind mapping sites with lots of Web 2.0 features, such as sharing, commenting, etc. // David Kapuler is an educational consultant with more than 10 years of experience working in the K-12 environment. For more information about his work, contact him ////via email//// or read //[|//his blog//]//. //