I wondered what I could cover for this blog post and decided on a pet topic of mine over the years – mind mapping! This is a technique that can be used in multiple circumstances such as when trying to organise thoughts when answering an exam question or assignment question or just trying to learn for an assessment.
Difference between active and passive learning
Generally, a poor way to learn is to use passive techniques. These types of techniques include reading textbooks, internet sites or highlighting information. Such techniques lead to a shallow appreciation of a subject. It is illusory in that you may think you understand a topic as you have read about but the information is unlikely to have made its way into your long-term memory and you will struggle to understand it and apply it to an exam or assignment question.
Active learning is the opposite to passive. It is very much in the hands of the student to carry out a task of some kind. Such active techniques involve mind mapping, preparing and using flashcards (sometimes known as index cards) and practising questions. You are really doing something ‘active’ with the information that you have.
What is mind mapping?
A mind map is a way to visually present information such that it shows links between related topics. It is meant to present and organise information. Generally, the key topic is the centre of the mind map, surrounding these are concepts related to the key topic, then sometimes further information is provided related to the sub topic. This can go on for a long time! Some mind maps are simple whereas others are much more detailed. It depends on the topic that is being mapped in addition to what the author wants from the mind map.
I have run mind map exercises in the classroom for many years. I find it amazing the different formats of maps that students choose to present the information. They are a very personal thing. One person’s mind map will never be the same as another’s. Our minds all work in different ways!
Benefits of mind mapping
Should you complete a mind map for an exam or assignment question or during revision it will help you remember information better as it will visually link concepts through association. It is also a way to record inspiration when you think of a great idea that you do not want to forget – just add it to your mind map. Some topics are obviously complex. By completing a mind map it allows the viewing of the component parts helping to simplify and gain a good understanding of the topic. I also use mind map preparation exercises in the classroom as a way of getting people to work together, it acts as a way to prompt discussion and collaboration.
How to prepare a mind map
Right let’s get to the crux of the matter, how do we create these things? Start off with a big piece of paper and write the main concept in the middle of the page. Then think of what subtopics are very closely related to the main concept and write these down. Keep going in this manner until you have written down all the information that is within the scope of the main topic that is relevant to your mind map. Connect all the parts with lines and arrows. There are numerous apps that you can use to develop mind maps if you prefer a digital approach.
Below is an example of one I prepared on sustainability a while back:
Give it a try, as with most things in life the more you mind map then the better you will become at preparing them.
John Binns BSc (Hons), MSc, MIEMA
John Binns BSc (Hons) MSc MIEMA is an experienced environmental tutor and consultant.