Mind mapping utilizes the way the brain works to create new perceptions, relationships and multple possibilities. Associative memory, visual memory, inmagery, synaesthesia, and Gestalt principles are explopited in the mind mapping process and "reflect (one's) internal structure and processes." (Buzan, 1993, p. 31)
Related Creative Thinking visualizations: Concept Mapping, Information Crystallization, ARC (Act, Reflect, Change), Rich Picture, some forms of Tree Diagraming
Strengths:
Interactive
Iterative
Helps users identify common themes, patterns
Works the way the mind does - by associations
Gets at "deeper" learning
Forestalls tunnel vision
Encourages lateral thinking
Uses:
Creative thinking
Brainstorming
Design
Organizing a subject
Integrating old and new knowlege
Reinforcing memory (studying)
Weaknesses:
Some of the methodologies associated with concept mapping and mind mapping are rigid
Software is too polished. There is a benefit to doing these processes manually.
