Intro

A concept map is a special form of a web diagram which offers a method to represent information visually. It can be used for exploring knowledge, gathering and sharing information, structuring thoughts or collecting ideas. A concept map can be developed by an individual person as well as in collaboration with a group.

A concept map consists of nodes or cells that contain a concept or an idea. The nodes are connected through branches or arrows in order to build relations between the contents of the nodes. Concept Maps therefore form networks of knowledge.

A few examples for the usage of concept maps…

• visualizing knowledge in brainstorming sessions
• summarizing class readings
• outlining information in a presentation
• simplifying complex systems of dependencies
• structuring thoughts for an essay
• visualizing results of experimental research papers
• etc.

Concept Map on Fast Food

Theoretical background

The technique of concept mapping was developed by Joseph D. Novak at Cornell University in the 1970s, as a way to increase meaningful learning in science. Concept Maps have their origin in the learning movement called constructivism. In particular, constructivists hold the view that prior knowledge is used as a framework for understanding and learning new knowledge.

Novak's work is based on the theories of David Ausubel, who pointed out the importance of prior knowledge when learning new concepts and developed the method of ‘advanced organizers’. The fundamental idea of this theory is that learning takes place by assimilating new concepts into existing networks of knowledge held by the learner. Concept Maps can be used to develop such an advanced organizer, to provide the learner with a conceptual framework that helps assimilating more specific knowledge.

Decades of empirical and qualitative research has verified the efficacy of Concept Maps as a learning support. Novak believes "one of the reasons concept mapping is so powerful for the facilitation of meaningful learning is that it serves as a kind of template to help organize knowledge and to structure it". Cognitive research makes it seem evident that our brain memorises and organizes knowledge in networks. Using a learning approach that facilitates these patterns should enhance learning capabilities.

Organizational patterns

• nodes - each node contains a key concept that is related to the subject or domain of the Concept Map.
• cross-links – all concepts will be linked through lines and arrows in order to develop an organized web of knowledge. Each link states the relationship of the connecting concepts. Arrows visualize an interdependency between concepts.
• grouping – if a number of concepts contain related ideas, you may want to draw a circle around the whole area, use the same color or move them closer to each other.
• explanatory notes – you may want to write a few sentences in the map itself, to explain, question, or comment on some aspect of your Map – for example, the relationship between some of the ideas.
• colours – help to structure the Concept Map by separating groups of concepts; they can also help to recall the content of the Map.
• symbols and images – adding symbols, images or examples to the map can clarify the meaning of concepts and help to remember the information.

Developing a Concept Map

1. Write the subject or domain in the centre of the page and draw a circle around it.
2. Start a collection of key concepts that are related to the knowledge domain.
3. Try to rank the concepts according to their generalization, e.g. examples being very specific.
4. Construct your map by organizing the concepts on your work space and linking the nodes with lines or arrows.
5. Label the connections according to their relationships.
6. After finishing a first draft of a map, one should always revise it. Concept Maps are never finished.
7. As you come across new information, link it in to the Concept Map appropriately. Move the concepts around to find a clear structure. Try to organize the web of knowledge as much as possible, e.g. using colour or grouping.
8. Finish the Concept Mapping work process by saving a "final" version of the map.

Concept Mapping Tools

Software tools for developing Concept Maps

Shareware

• CMap (University of West Florida)
• Compendium
• Free-mind (mind-mapping tool)

Commercial software

• Smart Draw
• Inspiration
• Decision Explorer
• OmniGraffle (for MAC only)
• SMART Ideas
• Mind Manager Free download

Describtions of the individual tools and comparisons between some of them can be found on the internet. Most commercial providers offer free trial versions of their products.

Back to Concept Mapping

Links and References

Short manuscript on Concept Mapping by J. D. Novak - http://cmap.coginst.uwf.edu/info/

Homepage of IHMC CMaps Tools (University of Florida) - http://cmap.ihmc.us/

References

http://www.graphic.org/concept.html

http://classes.aces.uiuc.edu/ACES100/Mind/CMap.html

http://www.mindtools.com/mindmaps.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_map

http://cmap.coginst.uwf.edu/info/