Introduction

Rationale

Goals

Progress Continuum

Benchmarks

Guiding Principles

Independence

Help

Criteria for MindTools

To be considered MindTools, Jonassen (2000, p. 18) suggests the following criteria (Jonassen's criteria, Ackerman's annotations):

1) Computer-based

This perhaps we can take for granted that t MindTools are computer-based, but many resources fit all other criteria; Jonassen envisions a methodology for integrating technology into instruction.

2) Available Software

To be a MindTool, software must be available to all students whenever appropriate.  If access limits use, then the the software cannot be considered a MindTool.

3) Affordable

Software that meets all other criteria, but that is too expensive to make available to learners, then it cannot be a MindTool.

4) Knowledge Construction

Technology used as a MindTool must be used in ways aligned with Constructivist learning theory.

5) Generlizable

Technology that is a MindTool must be useful in multiple fields of study; although a piece of software may be applied in a very specific context or towards a specific problem, if it is a MindTool, then the same technology must be useful in understanding and solving problems.

6) Critical Thinking

Jonassen has a very specific definition of critical thinking... read a description of it here.

7) Transferable Learning

MindTools help learners develop skill and knowledge and experience that can be used to solve other problems.

8) Simple Powerful Formalism

Using MindTools causes a learner to reconsider what she understands and how she understands it.

9) Easily Learnable

Software that requires an inordinate amount of training to use cannot be a MindTool; if the technology is so difficult to use that it operation inhibits understanding, then it cannot be a MindTool.