A-Z Tools & Technologies: Popplet
What is it?
Popplet is a mind mapping app (and online web service) that allows you to visually curate your ideas and thoughts. This app could be particularly useful for those people who consider themselves visual learners.
What does it do?
Popplet allows you to visual record your ideas, thoughts and inspirations. Starting with a blank canvas you can add text, upload images, embed videos and draw. Popplet can also be used for group work as it allows for multiple devices to connect to the same Popplet.
To find out more about Popplet, watch the video below:
Below are some examples of how Popplet can be used:
How can I use it in my teaching?
Popplet can be used for a variety of activities ranging from creating personal learning networks to mapping out relational databases. Other examples include:
- Assignment, project planning and curriculum design
- Creating historical family trees or timelines
- Creating decision trees for demonstrating reasoning
- Creating mind maps and organisation charts
- Creating mood boards and storyboards
How much does it cost?
Popplet online is free but the iOS app costs £2.99. There is a free version of the app (Popplet Lite) but this only allows you to create one Popplet (mindmap). To access Popplet online, visit: http://www.popplet.com. Unfortunately, Popplet isn’t available on Android devices but an excellent alternative is MindJet.
I’ve used Popplet quite a few times in my teaching and for my own personal organisation and thinking. The great thing about it is that it’s such a simple app to use. I usually give a quick demonstration for the students, along with an example of the type of outcome I expect and then let them get on with it. Exporting Popplets to collaborative/sharing platforms for peer review etc is not quite as straightforward as it could be, but manageable with a bit of thought.
Excellent Visual Featuring The 6 Benefits of Mind Maps ~ Educational Technology and Mobile Learning http://shar.es/SHVK1