PART 4 – WHAT HAVE I LEARNED?

Many of us have learned to outline information in our studies, as:

• I. First item
• II. Second item
  • A. sub item
  • B. sub item
    • 1. sub sub item
    • 2. sub sub item
• III. Third item

An alternative to outlining is Mind Mapping. Mind Mapping is an analytical process that can be used: to take notes, to study for an exam, to brainstorm, or to make connections between ideas. It enhances memory.

Essentials of Mind Mapping:

The central image represents the subject being mapped
Brainstorm the key ideas related to that topic. These themes radiate like branches from that central image. You may use key images or words to represent these themes
Radiating from these themes you will have supporting details
Optional: Use of colour and codes

Edit this first phase

Think about the relation of outside items to the center item
Erase, edit, and/or shorten words to key ideas
Relocate important items closer to each other for better organization
Explore the relationships between different aspects of the map
Link concepts with words to clarify their relationships

Materials:

• A sheet of paper for each student or group
• Sticky-notes
• Coloured pens or crayons, even scissors and glue if pictures will be used

This map is your personal learning document
It combines what you knew with what you are learning and what you may need to complete your "picture". This is an excellent way to consolidate what you have learned in any course, to support or replace study notes.