Mind Mapping Software - Preferably Free

[Kyle]

I have been asked about Mind Mapping Software, but i guess (knowing the school) it will have to be free.

 

 

What are you using and why?

[dhicks]

What are you using and why?

 

Freemind. Free, open source, up-to-date (latest version created, like, today). Cross-platform Java (although a bit of a bugger to install on Edubuntu as it needed a different JVM from the default installed, but fine otherwise).

 

--

David Hicks

[SimpleSi]

The guys at Lancs Uni on the Networks Course recommended FreeMind.

 

I used it to draw network maps

 

regards

 

Simon

[deerwood]

Go for the free stuff only if you really must.

 

You do not say whether the software is for pupils, staff or both to use. What phase or keystages would the school intend to use the mindmapping tool.

 

Almost invariably, the best way to start is with pen and paper so that the concepts and principles of mindmapping can be got accross first.

 

If you then wish to take computer based mindmapping seriously, you would need to consider the following programs;

 

Mindmanager - the market leader, suitable for business, commerce, higher education and secondary education.

 

Inspiration - leading 'educational' mind mapping program suitable for Juniors and upwards plus staff use.

 

Kidspiration- Primary school mindmapping program

2Connect- from 2 simple, primary school mindmapping program with interesting collaboration facilities.

 

There are, of course, others including Mind Genius and iMind. The latter follows the Buzan method best.

[MkII]

Freemind is excellent and does a top job, so disagree with comment above. It may be awkward to use the program but it's how mind maps work.

[Guest Guest]

Freemind is excellent and does a top job, so disagree with comment above. It may be awkward to use the program but it's how mind maps work.

 

But we all know FOSS is crap, especially that apache, linux, mysql

[sahmeepee]

2Connect- from 2 simple, primary school mindmapping program with interesting collaboration facilities.

 

I just installed this for our Head of ICT on a free trial. It's pretty basic, VERY BIG ICONS, msi installer. Unfortunately it needs local admin rights or a permissions change on its program files folder to run properly (otherwise it crashes).

 

I guess it's par for the course to sell educational software without doing any testing first!

 

I like freemind, but I think it probably does need a more simple interface for the younger ones to get anywhere with it.