Mind Mapping From Cognitive Perspectives

Abstract

Vocabulary is considered to be the basis in the learning of a foreign or second language. A vast amount of scholars and linguists believe that vocabulary plays a principal role in learning a second language. As stated by Cameron (2001) “building up a useful vocabulary is central to the learning of a foreign language at primary level.” Taking as a root of vocabulary memorizing, students repeat words (Ellis & Beaton, 1993). But the process of learning vocabulary through repeating is not an interesting and rather challenging task for learners despite the level they possess (Li, Yang & Chen, 2010). Most teachers tend to use the traditional way of learning vocabulary like repetition or giving definitions to new words which is not the most effective way. These problems are often discussed between researchers and Tony Buzan - the inventor of Mind Maps proposed to implement his visual aid system in the absorbing process. Basing on his hypothesis in this case study the mind mapping technique was reviewed, examined, clarified suitable mind mapping techniques, and recommended the chosen technique to learners in vocabulary learning from cognitive perspectives.