Ireland's Online Resource for Parents & Teachers
Unleashing Creativity – Study & the use of Mind Maps
In these times of cuts and pressure in the educational system what can parents do to equip their child with a study skill that endures for a life-time?
Over forty years ago Tony Buzan created the concept of a Mind Map that has endured to this day and is used by millions of people worldwide.
Mind Maps have found use in education, business and personal life. Those who have used them to aid study, have in turn used them in business to brainstorm or problem solve. In their personal life they have used them to plan a holiday or even to help plan a wedding.
A Chief Executive Officer responsible for 1500 staff uses a Mind Map every morning to plan his day.
What is a Mind Map?
A Mind Map is a powerful graphical technique which unlocks the full potential of the brain. How does it do this? It does this by encouraging Mind Mappers to use their imagination, creativity, imagery and colour in the serious task of aiding memory recall. As a picture is better than a thousand words, the example below is a Mind Map describing some concepts from the world of science. Students can apply the technique across all of their subjects and create a catalogue of Mind Maps to revolutionise how they study.
Key applications of Mind Maps include its use in
Brainstorming
Problem Solving
Memory Recall
Identifying key concepts
Organising and summarising information
Specific examples related to education in primary, secondary and third level include:
- Planning an essay or an answer to a question
Taking notes in class
Revising for exams and during the year
Deciding what course to choose for college
Planning a study To-Do List
Analysing a case study
Tapping into their imagination, colour and imagery allows students to increase memory recall and have fun while studying. This synergy appeals to all types and especially to students who need more of a stimulus than pure black and white learning. One ex-student described how his daydreaming and imagination was at odds to traditional school learning until Mind Maps allowed him to channel his energy in a positive direction.
Mind Maps – No Limits
When you use Mind Maps on a daily basis, you will find that your life becomes more productive, fulfilled, and successful on every level. There are no limits to the number of thoughts, ideas and connections that your brain can make, which means that there are no limits to the different ways you can use Mind Maps to help you.
Further information
Bernard Foley is Ireland’s first Buzan Licensed Instructor and runs seminars throughout Ireland. To register your interest email bfoleylearning@gmail.com or phone 01-8023990 /087 7039467
Useful Links - JuniorMindMaps.com - the website of a Junior Certificate Students selling the Mindmaps she created to achieve straight A's in the Junior Certificate Exam
Useful Reading:
Mind Maps for kids - available here
on Amazon