ICT as Mind Tool

     ICT as   

   

The learning environment can be enhanced by stimulating the use of innovative ICT applications. In particular, this writing focus on mind tools as a mean of ICT for development of students skills.

What are ICT mind tools??

Briefly, I can define the ICT mind tools as they are computer-based tools and learning environment in order to engage and facilitate critical thinking and higher order learning. These tools include databases, semantic networks, spreadsheets, visualization tools and many other useful tools.

Before I read about ICT mind tools I were using ICT as mind tools in my classrooms but I didn’t notice that this is called ICT mind tools. I discovered new use of computer as a mind tool and it is the mind mapping or concept map. It is a visual thinking and learning approach, which help me in teaching and help my students in learning. Below is an example of how I use illustrator software as a mind tool.

 

Before, I was always drawing maps and divided any information related to me personality and tried to connect all the ideas with each other and I followed this technique with my students. All the information I taught them I drew them on the board and connected to each other because I knew that it is the easiest way for my students to remember and understand. But after, when I know more about the visual concept map, I will use it more and more inside my classroom because it is useful for my students in many ways, It provide structure for thinking, writing, focus thoughts and ideas which leading to understanding and interpretation and connect between the previous knowledge and the new concepts.



I really get benefit from these tools and also my students benefit from them. ICT mind tools engage students in higher thinking. In addition, mind tools required students to be creative and to think and make connections for them. Also these tools help students to analysis and organize their ideas and their thinking.

Here are some of the useful links:
     (1) Mind tools contributing to an ICT-rich learning enviroment
     (2) ICT MindTools