Teaching:TUW - UE InfoVis WS 2008/09 - Gruppe 09 - Aufgabe 1 - Mind Map

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A mind map is a graphical diagram which shows relations between different terms.


Figure 1: Hand-drawn Mind Map.

Mind Mapping was introduced by Tony Buzan in 1974 [Wikipedia 1, 2002]. He argued that using all the advantages of a human brain is to combine logical ideas with graphical arrangment. The method of the Mind Mapping is based on the conception that the brain is divided into two halves. The functions of the left brain half (like logical thinking, forming terms, thinking in individual components) are usually more strongly used than the functions of the right brain half (to think in pictures, in general contexts). Illustrating the thinking process in a Mind Map can support the linkage of these two function modes. A finished Mind Map is an overall view of the thought process with individual thought paths and elements (Figure 1).
At first ideas are visualized unordered and unvalued. They are written into the Mind Map as they emerge during the process of thinking. Far later, the elements of a given Mind Map are ordererd and arranged intuitively, according to the importance of the terms [Wikipedia 2, 2002]. Mind Maps may also aid recalling existing memories later on.

How to generate a Mind Map[edit]

  1. In contrast to traditional recordings, the first step is to write down the central idea (central topic) in the center of a sheet (Figure 2).
    Figure 2: Starting point of a Mind Map.
  2. On the basis of the central idea the user associates further subranges, which are connected with this idea. These can be noted directly on the map or on a separate sheet. The most important ideas are connected with the central idea through lines (main branches - Figure 3) - written in block letters to make reading and reminding easier. Drawings can be used to get an optical rhythm into the Mind Map.
    Figure 3: Adding main branches.
  3. In a third step the main branches can be subdivided into other branches (sub branches - Figure 4). The partitioning can be continued on to a second, third and further levels. These terms should be graphically designed in a way that they can be differentiated easily as well (however not with capital letters as this refers to the main branches).
    Figure 4: Adding further branches.
  4. An important attribute is, that apparently coincidental changes of direction are allowed. Another branch can gain the focus without finishing the last one. Also a basic idea of Mind Maps is to always use short terms like key words, references or abbreviations (NO sentences!). The use of color is always desired because this helps to connect ideas written at different areas. A visual representation is another good choice, wherever it is makes sense. Not only symbols (e.g. arrows) but iconographical icons (like smileys and other well known symbols) are popular (Figure 5).
  5. The main and sub branches form the framework of a Mind Map which is revised after its creation (this can also be done at a later time, to refocus on the creative output energy). Missing associations are supplemented, if necessary the Map is restructured. Furthermore it should be examined whether some cross connections between main and/or subbranches exist.
    Figure 5: Fully equipped Mind Map.

For further information see [Wikipedia 2, 2002]

Fields of application[edit]

Mind Mapping as a presentation techniques[edit]

  • This is about the presentation of knowledge. Mind Maps are prepared by experts for a certain field of knowledge and used as an additional source to spoken or written text. This technique supports the audience learning complex facts easier.
  • The use of Mind Mapping techniques as a teaching strategy is recommended, particularly in connection with conceptual knowledge (e.g. economic circulation, financial and bank systems, etc.). Other possible applications are for example the representation of action diagrams, or the use of Mind Maps to list contents of a new topic. In some situations it should be considered to not present completed Mind Maps, but to develop and discuss them together.

Mind Mapping as learning and thinking strategy[edit]

  • The aim is to generate an own Mind Map. A topic is declared and then existing knowledge, conceptions, ideas and associations are written down. As a next step the results could be compared, discussed and supplemented with other findings.
  • Apart from structuring existing knowledge, Mind Maps can be used vice versa, for example to get information out of a (structured) text. A text passage could be read, all keywords underlined and the output graphically designed in a Mind Map. As a further step related information could be written into the Mind Map as well.
  • Another possible application is to remember existing knowledge. When learning new content it is often reuquired to reproduce this knowledge at a later date. For the human brain this is easier if it has as many related connections to the topic as possible. So it helps remembering content by trying to apply the same Mind Map as before. Afterwards both Mind Maps are compared and differences can be highlighted.

Mind Mapping as resource[edit]

  • Mind Maps could be used in group discussions to substantiate the problem space. The visualisation shows to all members on which topic to focus, and an overview is always available. Reportedly discussions are more coordinated and structured as well as conflicts can be located and solved easier.

For further information see [Wikipedia 2, 2002]

Advantages of Mind Mapping[edit]

In contrast to traditional recording techniques, the advantages of the Mind Mapping method are as follows (like the inventor Tony Buzan calls them):

  • The main idea is clearly in sight and it can be gathered fast and easily.
  • Because of main and subbranches the adjustment of ideas is implicit. Information near the main idea is important whereas terms near a boundary have a lower meaning for the whole content.
  • Important aspects are connected through lines.
  • New pieces of information can be added easily because of the structure and setup of a Mind Map, which is open-ended. Information can be added everywhere at any time, so new linkage of ideas is possible.
  • Every Mind Map looks different, which makes it easier to remember its shape and content.

A relevant problem consists of the fact that the acceptance is rather small amoung persons who are not familiar with this method. The Mind Map looks unclear, confusing and nested [Zmija, 2006].

References[edit]

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