Mindjet
This app is available for both Android and iOS (ipod touch/iphone/iPad).
I think this app could be helpful for students brainstorming ideas for essays in a range of English courses (099-102). You create a central 'bubble' in the app and then add related areas that can have their own ideas connected to them. Attached lists can be collapsed to give a simplified view. The app does not require active wifi, but maps can be shared over the network.
So far students have had a chance to use Mindjet in class and during proposal meetings. Students will have one additional opportunity to use Mindjet during report meetings when we go over full drafts of their report.
What I have learned so far:
Mindjet use varied widely among students. Some students created detailed bubble maps planning out the parts of their report. Other students expressed reservations about the program and preferences for more traditional outlining.
Using a tablet during an individual student meetings is challenging. During a typical meeting with a student I may be writing quick notes, comments on draft materials, answering question, and referencing handbook information on MLA style. Quickly doing these range of activities is still easier for me without a tablet.
I'm curious to see if Mindjet is as useful for some students in the revision stage. I should have more feedback about these last draft meetings just before finals.
I installed this program on my desktop last semester and used it to compile student feedback from an in class assignment. They did like the visual of the map - and I think it would have been even more interesting to build the map in class with them, using the tablet. I look forward to hearing how it goes for you!
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