Bubbl.us

Bubbl.us is an application that allows users to create mind maps or brainstorm ideas. It can also function as an organizational chart. Once created, users can share their work by embedding it into a blog or website. They can send it by email or export it as a file. The application also has a collaboration option to invite others to join in the creation of a mind map.

Bubbl.us is easy to learn. I was able to create an organizational chart for quadrilaterals (shown below) in about five minutes. I have not tried the collaboration option yet. I am concerned it may be cumbersome to do so with a class because you have to input all of the student emails into the website. I don't think it would be a good idea to use for the whole class instruction anyway. It might be better to assign groups of four to access bubbl.us. Have one student begin the creation of the page and invite the other three members to collaborate. Mind maps may then be shared with the whole class by printing them, or displaying them online.