When I was an education grad student, mind mapping was all the rage. We were given numerous photocopied mind map worksheets to help our pupils capture their brainstorms on paper.

While sometimes I'd rather use a blank piece of notebook paper, mind mapping can be a useful way for students to plot out their ideas and get started on a project.

CollegeDegree.com has a new article that links to some of the best mind mapping tools on the internet. Many of these are virtual tools, perfect for distance learners. Here's a blurb from their article:

"So, there you are staring at that black sheet of paper again. Or perhaps it's a black Word document on your computer screen. Whichever it may be, it's obvious you're about to take notes for that big essay assignment or group project, and you're not too excited about getting started!

That's where a different kind of note taking comes in to play, one that is actually fun to do and will also help you to understand your notes better. It's a technique called mind mapping, and is based around a strong visual method of taking notes. Whether your using colorful markers and paper or using state-of-the-art computer software, you'll find using mind maps are a much more interesting way to take notes than you ever have in the past!"

Check out their list of mind mapping tools (several of which are free) here: 99 Mind Mapping Resources, Tools, and Tips.