April 2005 — Features
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Using Mindtools in Education
Mindtools are cognitive tools such as selected computer programs that stimulate learning
and thinking in students. This technology is being used in today’s schools to “teach” students in much the same way that educators “teach” students (i.e., instruct students about what they know and assess their recall and comprehension of what they were told). Mindtools in education are a set of five tools that students and teachers can use in combination with “traditional” teaching and learning methods. The combination of technology and traditional methods of teaching work great together. Thus, both teachers and students alike will be better served by programs that devote a greater percentage of instructional time to problem solving and active learning. The teacher can even use mindtools for successful assessments while adhering to standards. The following are descriptions of the five types of mindtools:
The Database Mindtool. Database management systems are nothing more than electronic filing cabinets that are easier to scan through. It’s important to remember that the goal of successfully using mindtools is to incorporate basic, creative and complex thinking skills, while using the database and its functions in conjunction with the lesson being taught to stimulate learning.
The Graph Mindtool. A picture is worth a thousand words. As teachers, we know that graphing is one of the great organizational skills in learning. Graphs and charts work well because they communicate information visually. For this reason, graphs are often used in newspapers, magazines and businesses worldwide. This mindtool can really help students see their work and what it means. Sometimes, complicated information is difficult to understand and needs an illustration. Other times, a graph or chart helps impress people by getting your point across quickly and visually. For information on how to graph using Microsoft Excel, visit www.ncsu.edu/labwrite/res/gt/gt-menu.html.
Concept Mapping. A student or teacher uses the semantics mindtool area of concept mapping when wanting to organize thoughts, ideas or situations. There are three popular, easy-to-use concept mapping programs: Inspiration, Kidspiration and The Brain.
The Search Internet Mindtool. The Internet has revolutionized the world we live, learn and teach in. Therefore, successful learning while using the search Internet mindtool in education is possible. It is of utmost importance for a student to know and explore at least 20-30 different search engines. These search engines go throughout the Web and “hit” on the search terms you enter into the box. Some of the better search engines that I recommend for educational purposes include Google, Yahoo!, AlltheWeb.com, Yahoolihgans.com, Dogpile.com, and AskJeevesforKids.com.
The Visualization Mindtool. The final mindtool that can be created by a teacher or student is visualization. With this mindtool, a complete lesson can be covered through pictures and words by using a multimedia program such as PowerPoint or HyperStudio, or even by utilizing a WebQuest. This tool can be used by the teacher to complete an entire lesson, part of a lesson, or to sum up a lesson. This visualization mindtool can also employ sound and video in the creation of a lesson. While this is a hard tool to master, it is most beneficial in teaching and learning once it is done. Plus, it’s a lot of fun.
