Learning with Mind Mapping and Assistive Technology

Deirdre Madden, Assistive Technology Outreach Coordinator at University College Cork, presents on the integration of mind mapping and assistive technology to support learners with disabilities. Drawing on her background in disability services and her own experience with dyslexia, she shows how free and built-in digital tools—combined with mind mapping—can make learning more inclusive, engaging, and effective. Key Themes & Topics (Timestamped) [0:02] Introduction and role – Explains her work supporting students with disabilities across schools and universities, and her focus on levelling the playing field with technology. [3:54] Free online course – Describes “Technology to Make Learning Easier,” a free resource showcasing built-in and free assistive tools for reading, writing, and study. [4:45] Mind mapping for planning – Shows how maps help students with dyslexia and dyspraxia organise thoughts and avoid drifting off-topic in written work. [5:32] Using free tools – Advocates for Xmind 8 as a sustainable, no-cost option for schools in disadvantaged areas. [6:25] Accessibility on the go – Explains how saving maps to cloud storage lets students review them anywhere, even on phones during commutes or before exams. [7:10] Personal experience – Shares her own dyslexia and how mind mapping improved her organisation and independence. [8:19] Core IT skills – Stresses teaching touch typing, file management, and basic digital fluency to unlock the full benefits of assistive tech. [13:23] Motivation and engagement – Shows how she first motivates students with personal projects (like planning social events) before applying mapping to schoolwork. [17:07] Broader applications – Demonstrates maps for creativity, problem-solving, group work, and even PhD-level planning, beyond simple studying. [21:06] Templates in xMind – Highlights built-in templates (reports, schedules, book reviews) that help learners start quickly and adapt to different needs. [29:51] Exporting maps to Word/Docs – Shows how exporting to HTML and copying into Word or Google Docs lets students combine mapping with dictation and spellcheck. [38:56] Proof-listening with text-to-speech – Demonstrates tools like Speechify and Immersive Reader that allow learners to review and refine their written work through auditory feedback. Featuring: XMind