Usefulness and Effectiveness of Mind Mapping: An Analysis of CTU101 and CTU151 Courses

Mind mapping is a graphical depiction of a topic or idea, and its relationship in a hierarchy/level helps to increase the teaching and learning process in a classroom. The graphical depiction through the process of imaging and manipulating complex sets enhances students’ (1) memorization, (2) critical analysis and (3) conceptual understanding. Furthermore, these processes are able to motivate students, thus making them more active in class. This paper investigates the (1) usefulness and (2) effectiveness of the mind mapping concept in the (1) CTU101 (Basic Principles of Islam) and (2) CTU151 (Islamic Thought and Civilization) course, respectively. These courses are among the introduction level courses at the Universiti Teknologi MARA. The research presented in this paper was conducted using a survey (structured questionnaire). Participants were students from Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Perak Branch, Tapah Campus. The findings provide empirical evidence that mind mapping concepts help in the classroom teaching and learning through illustrations, short forms, graphics and audio that can enhance students’ interest in Islamic studies. Finally, the findings from this research will be used in the development of the I-MAPS application program that can be accessed through technology as an effort to increase students’ knowledge and understanding.