My Take
WeMap is an excellent student tool. My students prefer it compared to Popplet because they can collaborate. Since more than 1 person can add to the map at a time everyone is busy rather than waiting for their turn. This also saves class time, which I appreciate. It would be helpful if WeMap allowed users to draw in the nodes and add photos, both of which are features of Popplet.
How I Use It
My students use either WeMap or Popplet on a weekly, if not daily, basis. There are things they prefer about each (see below) and I often give them a choice of which app to use. The app is easy to use and students are able to create bubbles (nodes), move them around, and change the colors. It is easy for them to collaborate together as they each add things to put items and arrows in the best places. We use WeMap to demonstrate understanding of different concepts, such as landforms. Students also use it to share and compare personal topics, such as what they like about summer vacation. Another way we use WeMap is plan a project or piece or writing--using the app almost as an outline. It works well to generate conversations between students as they work. I usually have the students create a map in groups of 2-4 and then we use AirServer to share them whole class. A couple times I've had more students (8-10) working on a single map, but it often gets too large and difficult to track.