Abstract
The present study investigates psychological foundations of mind mapping as one of the relevant tools in teaching and learning process. A Mind Map, the modern approach implemented and developed by Tony Buzan is viewed as a visual diagram used to record and organise information in a way which the brain finds captivating and easy to process. It is based on the conception of radial tree, diagramming key words in a colorful, radiant, tree-like structure. The study focuses on the theoretical analysis of brain’s as well as cerebral hemispheres’ functioning aiming to explain the claimed increased effectiveness of mind mapping over other forms of learning, understanding, remembering and performing. Much attention is devoted to the benefits and challenges of using mind maps. Thus, some sufficient mind mapping strategies for English teachers which can be effectively used in the classroom have been presented. The research confirms that mind mapping is a beneficial learning tool to help students brainstorm any topic and think creatively. It is a powerful way for students to reach high levels of cognitive performance.
 References
 
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Highlights
Learning process proves to be successful only if it involves multiple strategies available for critical thinking, decision-making and creative studying
The purpose of the present study is to investigate psychological foundations of mind mapping as one of the relevant tools of learning and analyse the benefits and challenges of using mind maps in teaching English
Experimenting with Mind Mapping we encourage students to enhance their competence in English as well as develop their creativity, critical thinking and what is more, teach them how to structure their thoughts and sort out information they work with
Summary
Learning process proves to be successful only if it involves multiple strategies available for critical thinking, decision-making and creative studying. The greatest challenge expected is to change the education situational factors in the direction of teacher as coach and learner from the prevailing model of teacher as disseminator of 1© Buchatska, Svitlana. Psychological Foundations of Mind Mapping Strategies in Teaching English. Volume 3, Number 1, 2016 information and boss in the classroom. Teachers and educators need to be engaged in training programs that can model the new educational approaches
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