Freeplane Tutorial: Importing Markdown Outlines for Online Education
Introduction
- What is Freeplane?
- Open-source mind-mapping tool for organizing ideas and enhancing productivity.
- Why Use Markdown?
- Simple, text-based format for creating structured mind maps.
- Tutorial Goals:
- Import markdown outlines into Freeplane.
- Organize and enhance mind maps for clarity.
- Present mind maps for online education.
Step 1: Preparing the Markdown Outline
- Markdown Syntax:
- Headings (
#, ##) create main and sub-nodes.
- Bullet points (
-, *) create child nodes.
- Example Markdown Outline:
Lesson Plan: Introduction to Photosynthesis
Objectives
- Explain the process of photosynthesis.
- Identify the key components involved.
Activities
- Watch a video on photosynthesis.
- Complete a diagram labeling exercise.
Assessment
- Quiz on photosynthesis concepts.
- Save the File:
- Save the markdown file in an accessible location (e.g., Desktop, Documents).
Step 2: Importing the Markdown Outline into Freeplane
- Open Freeplane:
- Launch the Freeplane application.
- Import the File:
- Go to
File > Import and select the markdown file.
- Configure Import Settings:
- Choose
Node hierarchy based on headings.
- Adjust formatting options as needed.
- Result:
- Markdown outline transforms into a structured mind map.
Step 3: Organizing and Enhancing the Mind Map
- Reorganize Nodes:
- Drag and drop nodes to create a logical flow.
- Example: Group
Activities and Assessment under Objectives.
- Add Visual Elements:
- Use the toolbar to add icons, colors, and notes.
- Example: Add a lightbulb icon to
Objectives and a checkmark icon to Assessment.
- Highlight Relationships:
- Use connectors and clouds to group related ideas.
- Example: Draw a cloud around
Activities and Assessment.
Step 4: Presenting the Mind Map for Online Education
- Enter Presentation Mode:
- Go to
View > Presentation Mode.
- Navigate the Slideshow:
- Main nodes become slides.
- Child nodes appear as bullet points.
- Export the Presentation:
- Go to
File > Export.
- Choose a format (e.g., PDF, image, HTML) for sharing.
Conclusion and Next Steps
- Key Takeaways:
- Markdown outlines simplify mind map creation.
- Freeplane’s tools enhance clarity and visual appeal.
- Presentation mode is ideal for online education.
- Explore Further:
- Visit Freeplane Documentation for advanced features.
- Experiment with your own markdown outlines and share your creations.