Abstract:
Background
The Mind Map is an expression of Radiant
Thinking, the associative thought
processes that proceed from or connect to
a central point, and is therefore a natural
function of the human mind. It is a
powerful graphic technique that can be
applied to improve learning and clearer
thinking (Buzan & Buzan, 1993). Mind
maps can be used as self-learning
methods that facilitate understanding of
difficult concepts.
Objective
The curriculum of the Faculty of Medicine,
University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
emphasises the need for self-directed
learning and deep learning. Our objective
was to evaluate the effectiveness of using
mind maps as a self-learning method for
the new entrants to the Faculty.
Method
Seventy-four new entry medical students
were randomly selected and assigned to two equal groups based on their high
school performance. (Mind map vs. selfselected
study technique). A text on iron
deficiency anaemia was selected as selfstudy
material. The mind map group was
given a 30-minute lesson in the technique.
Both groups were exposed to the study
text for a 45-minute period and were
requested to answer four structured essay
questions based on the study text.
Results
There was no significant difference
between the marks of two groups. The
average mark of the entire group was
34.4%. Majority (97.1%, N=34) from the
mind map group felt that it is useful to
summarize information and 87.9% want to
study further about mind mapping.
Discussion
Mind map technique is not superior in
newly trained for short-term learning;
however majority perceived it as a useful
learning tool.
