Using CMAP tools for concept mapping
I love the idea of visual note-taking, even if I can’t always get it into my workflow. Even when I use it little, there are occasions where it is vital. The example that springs to mind is trying to figure out the interrelationship between renal and cardiac physiology. When I studied that for my last exam, I made a luddite concept map on a big sheet of paper. Now, I would use CmapTools.
Cmap tools is free and available for Mac, Windows, Linux and Solaris. As it is an educational product, it is not gorgeous or slick, but it is very functional. Ideas can be joined together in a very intuitive manner, and moved around easily.
Another function offered by the program is the ability to share public maps. The is a large library of maps available to look through. Unfortunately, most seem pretty simple, especially in the health sphere. However, this facility could be used for collaboration when studying or working in a multidisciplinary team.
Concept maps can be exported in multiple formats (images, PDFs, webpages, XML) so it is very flexible to archive and store data. If you are dealing with complicated interrelating concepts (like, um, physiology, medicine, pharmacology) then this program is worth trying out.
Concept mapping is further explained here, and there is further information about CMapTools in their documentation (in form of CMAPs, of course). Concept mapping is related to Mindmapping, although it is a different technique. You can also use CMap for Mindmapping, or on OSX, you might want to check out MindNode, which I have reviewed in this article. My favourite online tool, which also has collaboration is Bubbl.us, reviewed here.
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