Example of a Mind Map:

 
Mind Maps are a great way to brainstorm, note take, and assess in the classroom. Using this type of technology allows the teacher to see what the student(s) are grasping without having to use a quiz or a test. This tool is also great for students to use in a group setting. By breaking students up in groups and allowing them to work collaboratively on a topic allows a different type of learning environment; it gives students the opportunity to search and find the main idea(s) on their own. In addition, allowing students to then come together in a big group and share what they found gives them them the opportunity to teach their peers. This type of activity calls for little teacher instruction, allowing the teacher time to work with or assist others. 

There are many benefits to using mind maps. One would be the use of visual artifacts for those students who are visual learners. Being able to visually map out the main ideas or concepts of a topic allow this type of learner a deeper understanding of the topic. Mind maps also provide a way for students to see the big picture of a topic, because it forces them to condense ideas. This type of activity also allows students to see connections between ideas visually. Overall, the use of Mind Maps can be a great asset to the classroom environment; it keeps students actively engaged in the topic.

Concept maps also can pose some cons in the classroom. Some students may not be able to visually organize their ideas in this sort of manner; not every child is a visual learner, therefore differentiation must be made. Also, I could see some students doing a majority of the work while others slack off. This could be a great project for groups of no more than three students. I think this number allows all students in the group the opportunity and ability to share in the work load. 

The bubble.us website is a great tool; this makes mind mapping much easier than putting it on a piece of paper. Using this website allows students a different type of learning by incorporating technology. Again, this website works in a way that everybody in a group can collaborate and work on a project together. The only downside to this website is that it does take one person typing and the others sitting around telling them what to type, so it is not interactive for all. I could see the potential for younger students to lose interest. 

I will be using concept maps in my classroom. It allows the students to explore and dissect topics on their own without my instruction; which in turn can keep them more engaged. Mind maps can be used for any subject, and can be differentiated. For example, you can break students into groups and allow certain groups to work on different levels of thinking. I will be using bubble.us and concept maps in my classroom on a regular basis.