Mind Maps are used within the R.E department in order to help pupils
increase the quality of thinking and understanding. They assist in systems
thinking, allowing a visual representation of an overview, showing connections
and facilitating the synthesis of ideas. They are helpful for creative
thinking, allowing Pupils to access multiple intelligences and generate
new ideas. The Mind Maps help them to organize ideas, both their own
and those of other people. They help them organize information from
books, lectures and videos. Creating Mind Maps increases memory and
learning.
Such visual learning techniques - graphical ways of working with ideas
and presenting information - teach the R.E students how to clarify their
thinking, and to process, organise and prioritise new information. Visual
diagrams reveal patterns, interrelationships and interdependencies.
They also stimulate creative thinking.
Pupils within the department have used them effectively for revising
for exams. They have been encouraged to create their maps and hang them
on the wall in their own bedrooms.
The pupils have practiced throughout the year how to use a mind map
when answering an exam question. When the actual exam comes along they
are encouraged to spend some time creating a mind map from the question
before they attempt to answer it. This technique has proved very successful.
I began the year by showing the pupils the video, Get Ahead - A
Short Cut to Straight A’s. The video gives you a simple step
by step guide to mind mapping and other learning techniques. It is interactive
and fun to watch.
The pupils then had some practice in making their own personal mind
maps. They worked on individual maps and I collated the best to produce
a class mind map. Their new found learning technique was then gradually
applied to essay writing and note taking. The 'Class mind map technique'
would be used for every new unit.
The group were encouraged to use The Learning Centre's ICT facilities
in their approach to mind mapping. This had several advantages:
Webbing, idea mapping, and concept mapping are three of the most popular
visual learning methods. For students who express themselves visually,
and for those who learn more effectively through the use of visuals,
audio, and other multimedia techniques, visual learning inspires higher
levels of achievement. Inspiration(r) and Kidspiration(r) make it easy
and fun to implement these techniques.
Such software helps pupils updated their mind maps throughout a lesson,
prompt students to build upon prior knowledge and internalise new information.
By reviewing diagrams created previously, students see how facts and
ideas fit together.
Identify misconceptions. Just as a concept map or web shows what students
know, misdirected links or wrong connections reveal what they don't
understand.
Powered by the proven techniques of visual learning, Inspiration(r)
supports improved achievement for students right into adult. Inspiration
strengthens critical thinking, comprehension, and writing across the
curriculum.
An example of a mind map created by the RE Class
- A Creative Thinking experience to learn and develop from
- The ability to apply Mind Maps to class work, study, revision and
examinations
- Motivation for all - from the gifted to the disadvantaged
- An insight into your own creative genius at all I.Q levels
- The ability to integrate the use of your whole-brain skills
- An interest in the subject being taught
- Effective note-taking
- A realisation of your mental potential
- Improved communication
- Easier and more enjoyable learning
- Reduced frustration
- A greater sense of achievement
- Enjoyable class participation
- Improved concentration
- Better grades
Some pupils found it difficult at the beginning to leave behind the
old fashioned method of linear note taking.
Through a developed programme of mind mapping techniques the pupils
came to understand, appreciate and value the importance of mind mapping
and the role it plays in their learning. Pupils essays were much improved
and any mistakes were as the result of their mind maps were always quickly
recognised and rectified.
"I found it difficult at first, but after some
practice it all made sense"
James, S6
"Brilliant! Mind mapping in R.E has helped me in
other subjects too"
John, S6
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Brilliant! Mind mapping in R.E has helped me in other subjects too.
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