Mind Mapping with bubbl.us
Mind mapping, or concept mapping as it is sometimes referred to, is a powerful tool in the educator’s toolbox. I love the way it allows the learner to apply what they know about a specific concept and then arrange it in the larger context of a given theme. Each placement requires prior knowledge to be accessed and then real-time decisions to be made concerning how it might fit the given map. Not only does mind mapping reveal an understanding, or lack thereof, of concepts at hand, but for me it seems to tap into the multiple intelligences that Howard put forth in his book Intelligence Reframed. (Howard, 1999) The linguistic intelligence would be a shoe in for this type of project, but perhaps not the only one. For me, arranging objects in a certain pattern in a given space brings into play the spatial intelligence as well. Speaking of the spatial intelligence, Howard (1999) said it provides, “the potential to recognize and manipulate the patterns of wide space as well as the patterns of more confined areas” (p.42). It is this connection between the intelligences that, I believe, helps make mind mapping such a great tool. Another great aspect of this educational tool is its accessibility. Only a chalk or white board is needed to bring the map to life.
That was then and this is now. With today’s generation of digital natives it is almost necessary to translate the tool into the digital realm in order to avoid extinction. In order to take this idea to the digital platform one would need to make sure that a few elements were not lost in the translation. That’s where http://bubbl.us comes into play. This excellent Web2.0 tool makes mind mapping a breeze to use by keeping the interface simple and the output gorgeous. The next time you need a mind map or you want your students to create one be sure to check it out!
References
Howard, G. (1999). Intelligence reframed. New York: Basic Books.
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I think Bubbl.us is a good tool. I used it a lot in the Multiple Learning Theories course a few months ago to create mind and concept maps. I found Bubbl.us to be very intuitive and simple to use. The final product looked very polished and professional. Bubbl.us would be a great addition to any curriculum.
ReplyDeleteJosh,
ReplyDeleteGreat review! You have officially filled a void in my tool box. I was looking for a good mind mapping application off and on since February, but I have been left displeased with the results that I created. Some of the tools available are cumbersome with to much fussing to make them appear as you wish, while the other mind mapping applications that I found are perfect but cost to have access. Though I have not played with bubbl.us yet if your video demonstration means anything then I am hopeful for the simple use and intuitive design.
Thanks again Josh!