Mind Maps - A Tool for Learning and Assessment

One idea in psychology is that learning takes place by the assimilation and accommodation of new concepts and propositions into existing concept propositional frameworks held by the learner (Ausubel 1963, 1978). Piaget (1970) explains that an individual from childhood builds mental maps/concepts/schemes for understanding and responding to the physical experience in his environment. The term ‘schema’ is widely used in cognitive psychology, as ‘psychological constructs that are postulated to account for the molar forms of human generic knowledge’ (Brewer, 1999). More familiar to teachers is Buzan’s (2004) Mind Map developed in the 1960s.

He explains it as ‘a powerful graphic technique, which provides a universal key to unlock the potential of the brain. It harnesses the full range of cortical skills – word, image, number, logic, rhythm, colour and spatial awareness – in a single, uniquely powerful manner. In so doing, it gives you the freedom to roam the infinite expanses of your brain.’  When constructing a Mind Map the basic word or image is placed centrally and this triggers creative thoughts radiating from it. Curved lines symbolise these branches of thoughts, as the brain prefers organic and not rigid structures. The thickness of these branches indicates the importance of the idea linking with the central image. Each association can trigger off further ideas and links, which can cascade to infinity. (Buzan 2001)

‘Mind Maps are colourful, spatial learning tools. They are brilliant route maps for memory allowing you to organise facts and thoughts in such a way that the brain’s natural way of working is engaged right from the start. This means that remembering and recalling the information later is far more easy and reliable than when using traditional note-taking techniques’. (Buzan 2000, pp. xxiii – xxiv) 

Thus, links can be made in all directions leading to a 360-degree map. Buzan advocates the use of colours and pictures, with thicker lines denoting stronger links found at the heart of the map. Primarily the map is unique to each individual’s thinking process and is for personal use. As new ideas / concepts are introduced to the individual they will be assimilated into the knowledge structure and allow the person to make sense of the new learning. This is also connected to the idea of Ausubel’s assimilation of new concepts and propositions into existing concept and propositional frameworks held by the learner.

Buzan’s mind map from his Mind Map Gallery

Books by Buzzan -

Buzan T, 2000, Head First, Thorsons, London.

Buzan T, 2001, Head Strong, Thorsons, London.

Mind Map and Mind Mapping – a good site summarising the information

How to maximise your Brain power by Tony Buzzan

How to make mind map is an informative video

Mind maps make you Smarter by Tony Buzzan