Using Mind Maps to motivate the digital generation of students to learn foreign languages

Rostov State Transport University, 2, Rostovskogo Strelkovogo Polka Narodnogo Opolcheniya Sq., Rostov-on-Don, 344038, Russia

^* Corresponding author: odar-irina@yandex.ru

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to study the possibilities of using mind-mapping technology in modern conditions of digital transformation of the educational process to develop students’ motivation to learn foreign languages. The research methods are the method of static description of the material, analysis, comparison and generalization of scientific information, and experiment. As a result, it was proved that the use of this technology in teaching foreign languages facilitates memorization of lexical material, promotes the development of speech skills, and makes the learning process exciting. It was found that in the course of creation of Mind Maps, students with a high level of digital skills are more successful in overcoming the language barrier, striving to expand the semantic components of Mind Maps. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that for the first time the students’ preferences on the choice of methods of learning foreign languages were studied. To pioneer the use of the method, the study was carried out on special German texts, which were studied by the students by means of two methods (traditional and mind-mapping technology).