 | Creative Training - A User's Guide (IIRR, 1998) |
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Mind mapping
Mind mapping is an activity that allows an entire subject to be presented on a single sheet of paper through the use of symbols, words, lines and arrows. It is also used as an awareness raising tool in unfolding key concepts, e.g., power, development, justice, etc.
Figure
Purpose
Mind maps can be used as:
· visual aids
· speaker's guides
· note making techniques
· evaluation tools
· brainstorming/awareness raising tools
Suggested approach
Mind maps can be made individually or by a group.
1. Print the main topic or idea in the middle of a sheet of paper or black board and enclose in a circle, square or other shape.
2. Add a branch extending out from the center for each key point or idea. The number of branches will vary with the number of ideas or segments. Use a different color for each branch.
3. Write a keyword or phrase on each branch and add details. Keywords are those that convey the heart of an idea and trigger memory
4. Add further branches, stemming from the first set of keywords, as you explore the topic in greater depth.
5. Connect ideas which are closely related to each other through the use of more lines and branches.
Figure
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Hints · Add symbols and illustrations for better recall. Use legible, CAPITAL letters, make important ideas longer, underline words use different colors and bold letters.
· Magazine pictures and photos which are related to the
topic can be used as an alternative to symbols or
keywords. |
Mind maps as visual aids
The facilitator uses a mind map as a guide to present ideas and the relationship between them. Portions that are not being used can be covered so as not to distract the participants' attention. There is also a need to use common symbols that participants can identify with.
Mind maps as speaker's guides
Instead of using index cards, a mind map is used to outline a speech or lecture and remind the speaker of what to say. This is a suggested alternative to the traditional, structured listing of major points. It is for the speaker's personal use.
Mind mapping as a note making technique
Consider the section on "Suggested ways of making mind maps" when using mind maps as a notemaking tool. It is important to note, however, that in using abbreviations, familiar ones should be used for easy recall.
Mind mapping as an evaluation tool
A mind map is used to measure the extent of the participants' understanding of a concept or a situation which was presented. They are asked to draw a mind map that illustrates what they understand, either individually or as a group.
Mind mapping as a brainstorming/awareness raising tool
This starts with a broad concept presented to the participants for them to reflect on. The facilitator guides the discussion. Key concepts are unfolded by asking, "What contributed to this?", "Why is it so?", "How did it happen?" or "What influenced it?". The facilitator guides the participants to considering areas of the map in a more detailed way. This may lead to a main branch sprouting several sub-branches.
Example
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In an "empowerment workshop" in an urban poor community in Quezon City, a need to dissect the word "power" emerged. The facilitator asked question, "In your opinion who do you think are the most powerful people?" and "What are the most powerful organizations in your community?" Through a mind map, participants came out with the following:
Through the activity, the participants realized that they had
limited access to the various sources of power in their lives. They realized
that unless they could organize themselves to forge a common goal and purpose
they would not be heard. The facilitator built on the insights of the group to
start the empowerment workshop. |
Strengths
· Flexible activity
· Focuses attention and
increases capacity of recall
REFERENCE: Quantum learning by B. Deporter and At. Hernacki.
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