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| Ron Arons discusses using "mind maps" in genealogy |
Last week's "Mind Mapping
for Genealogy" class led by author and genealogist Ron Arons offered participants an in-depth look at how computer software can be used to
create "mind
maps"
to improve and enhance our research. This is particularly helpful for those who
best grasp ideas through visual learning.
Ron is an entertaining speaker and a patient instructor
who knows his material. He introduced attendees to three (free) software
programs offering three different approaches to mind mapping: Visual
Understanding Environment, The Brain, and Free Mind.
Chris Pattillo, who attended the class, said she "kicked
the tires"
of each program before coming to the session. "I can tell you that one--Visual
Understanding Environment--is so intuitive and easy to use that I was able to
create a multi-color organization chart for CGS before arriving at the class,"
she said. "The
introductory video for the program called The Brain is dazzling and it appears
to be amazingly powerful."
It can be a labor-intensive undertaking to use the
programs: each requires the user to first enter all their data on a particular
subject before being able to analyze the information. But if the effort helps
solve one of your family mysteries the time may prove worthwhile.
Thanks to Ron for presenting the class and to Maureen
Hanlon and her Events Committee team for making it all happen.
