Learning support professionals often recommend using Mind maps. A mind map is a pictorial representation of how a concept is connected to other concepts and ideas.

Mind mapping is useful for taking notes, revising, retention, summarising and generally organising information.

Brainstorming is another popular use of mind maps.

A mind map uses images and words connected by lines. One begins with a central topic or idea. Related concepts and ideas are drawn or pasted in and linked with lines.

Mind mapping software allows the user to insert images or files from a computer. Some mind mapping software allows the mind maps to be presented as a word processing file or as a graphical presentation.




The software allows the user to organise information in a visual way, using pictures and graphics.

Resources

• Inspiration
  
  

  Introduction to Inspiration V8		Using Inspiration (on the Mac)
  Using Inspiration with a SmartBoard		Inspiration V7.5

  
  
  
• MindManager Pro
  
  

  What is Mind Manager

  Mind Manager7 for the Mac

  
  
  
  
• PersonalBrain. Free mind mapping software.
  Linux - Works on many Linux/Unix variations. Tested on: Ubuntu, Red Hat, Fedora, Solaris, SUSE.
  Mac OS 10.4+
  Windows Vista, XP, 2000
  
  

  Using PersonalBrain 4

  PersonalBrain 4 Review

  
  
  
• Wikipedia list of mind mapping programs

Online Mindmaps

New technologies such as bubbl.us allow groups to create collaborative mindpaps together across the internet

Getting started with Bubbl.us

Bubbl.us basics