Mind Mapping Resources

In a traditional classroom setting, I frequently have my composition students use clustering (or mind mapping) as a method of prewriting.  I’ve been thinking about having my online students try it too using web-based mind-mapping software.  I’ve found the following sites, all of which offer free accounts:

Wisdomap: “Wisdomap helps you to organise your thoughts in a powerful mind map format, and allows you to attach notes, videos, pictures, links and files to your map. The colourful, bright and clear maps engage the right side of the brain, while keeping notes and media outside the mind map itself ensures simplicity and clarity.”

WiseMapping: “Wise Mapping is the web mind mapping tool that leverages the power of Mind Maps mixing new technologies like vectorial languages (SVG and VML) and the power of the whole Web 2.0 concept. No pluggin required.” 

Video: wisemapping

bubbl.us:  “Bubbl.us is a simple and free web application that lets you brainstorm online.”

Video:  “Bubblus Basic Mind Mapping“

Video:  “Bubbl.us Basics: Brainstorming and Mind-mapping Online“ 

MindMeister: “MindMeister brings the concept of mind mapping to the web, using its facilities for real-time collaboration to allow truly global brainstorming sessions. Users can create, manage and share mind maps online and access them anytime, from anywhere. In brainstorming mode, fellow MindMeisters from around the world (or just in different rooms) can simultaneously work on the same mind map and see each other’s changes as they happen.”

Video:  “Mindmeister“

Mindomo: “Mindomo is a versatile Web-based mind mapping tool, delivering the capabilities of desktop mind mapping software in a Web browser – with no complex software to install or maintain.”

I haven’t tried any of these yet, so I’d appreciate feedback from people who have used them of know of similar sites.