It argues that the choice of mapping tool largely depends on the purpose or aim for which the tool is used and that the tools may well be converging to offer educators as yet unrealised and potentially comple- mentary functions. This paper offers an outline of the various types of tool available and their advantages and disadvantages. However, as this paper will demonstrate, there are clear differences in each of these mapping tools.

Sometimes these terms are used synonymously. Variants of these tools are available under different names: ‘‘concept mapping’’, ‘‘mind mapping’’ and ‘‘argument mapping’’. Pictures and structured diagrams are thought to be more comprehensible than just words, and a clearer way to illustrate understanding of complex topics. The common feature of all these tools is the use of diagrammatic relationships of various kinds in preference to written or verbal descriptions. Typically, the tools are used to help impart critical and analytical skills to students, to enable students to see rela- tionships between concepts, and also as a method of assessment. In recent years, academics and educators have begun to use software map- ping tools for a number of education-related purposes.

Brain mapping tools comparison