Hi Danielle,

We suggest free websites such as, Coggle ( https://coggle.it/) or MindMup ( https://www.mindmup.com/), but there are lots of free options out there. We would then use something like Read & Write from texthelp for voice to text. I also recently did a webinar with MindView ( https://www.matchware.com/mind-mapping-software) which has more options, but does have a cost to it, however this could be a good option.

Thanks

Laura

Hi Danielle,

I like to recommend the use of built in voice-to-text features and programmes. This way it reduces the cost for schools. I have struggled to differentiate recently too! Siri will arguably work as well as Dragon Dictate.

This can be used across all platforms e.g. Apple, Windows and Google using: Siri, Cortana or Google. Now most devices will allow access to a ‘smart typing’ features, on Apple it comes as standard. Just look for the microphone on the keyboard to activate voice-to-text.

You can either record voice notes straight into individual sections of your maps or just select the microphone icon on the onscreen keyboard. Siri will work on any Apple based Mind Mapping app. I favour  Kidspiration,  Inspiration or Clicker Board on PC. This is because when using the above you can also have saved voice notes attached to individual pictures, text boxes or images. This can work well for teachers to pre-populate audio questions for the students to then respond too.

If you are not able to purchase Kidspiration, I also recommend to schools to just use Apple standard app Key Notes or if you aren’t on an Apple device Google Slides. It is possible on any ‘presentation’ type app  to create mind maps. I recommend for the schools to save the template and then just re-use as it when needed as it can be fiddly to set up each time.

If you would like to email I have examples of templates and how it can be used. Although the forum will not allow me to insert the pictures correctly.

I hope this is useful 🙂

Charlotte

charlotte.wright@hullcc.gov.uk

Hi All,

Sorry if I am telling you what you already know but Microsoft 365 has now got a voice to text function.

I think you can down load a free trial to try it before purchase.

The function bar at the top of the text page has a microphone it is much quicker and easier to use than Dragon Dictate in my opinion.

Best wishes, Donna