5 Best Concept Mapping Tools for the Classroom

5 Best Concept Mapping Tools for the Classroom

The concept map is a visual learning tool that helps students identify relationships between concepts and ideas. The tool, which is a form of graphic organizer, categorizes information hierarchically. The central concept or theme is written in a box or node at the top of the page, and sub-concepts or topics are arranged downwards, connected using linking words or phrases that depict each sub-concept’s relationship to the main concept.

Use of concept maps help students to activate and link new information with past knowledge, brainstorm and organize information, and collaborate with others.

Although the first concept maps were plotted using paper and pen, technological advancements have brought to the forefront many concept mapping applications and tools, 5 of which are:

Lucidchart: This is a simple mapping tool with which students can prepare maps that are visually appealing and professional. Lucidchart is compatible with all devices, and enables students to collaborate, publish and share their work online with others.

Canva: Canva offers various pre-designed templates and images which students can customize to their requirements. Canva allows students to share their concept maps through social media and emails, or use them in presentations. Canva facilitates easy access and sharing of completed concept maps.

Mindomo: This application enables students to brainstorm in real-time and add audio-video content and images directly from the internet to explain topics in detail. The application has a playback mode, which documents any changes made by students, and a “presenter” feature which allows the map to be converted to a slide-by-slide presentation which students can use to demonstrate their thought process while creating the map.

Creately: With starter templates and real-time collaboration, Creately is a useful concept mapping tool for students. It includes easy-to-use features such as export, sharing and saving.

CmapTools: Students can access and collaborate using CmapTools anytime, anywhere. Nodes created using this application can have labels, images, hyperlinks and roll-over notes. This downloadable tool is easy to use, and offers a variety of creative features.

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