Thing #14

Flow charts and mind maps are two tools that could be fun any easy to utilize in the classroom. They could be used either independently or cooperatively. Although, I have to agree I think mind maps are more useful to use independently. I choose Gliffy and Mindmeister to explore. I really like Gliffy, there are some neat features on it. Sure a traditional flow chart can be made, but there are more options like floorplans, swimlanes, venn diagrams, and more. My only complaint about Gliffy is the stupid reminder at the bottom of your template on how many days your free trial is available. So this would have to be paid for if any long term use was intended.  Mindmeister seems a little bit more confusing to figure out how to use, but once you do it is not difficult at all to manage.  One use for these mind maps could be an aid to writing a research paper. It can easily be used to organize your thoughts and see a clear direction for the paper. I think the flow charts would come in more useful in the classroom. All the colors and the technology could make it more interesting to the student than the traditional pencil and paper flowchart.