Concept Maps
A concept map in general is a diagram which is organized to show concepts and their relationships. They usually connect these ideas through the use of boxes and arrows though the designer may choose a different approach. The bottom line is that these maps show connections and relationships.
The origin of concept maps can be found in the theory of constructivism. The technique was developed by Joseph Novak at Cornell University in the 1970's.
I have used concept maps in the past for brainstorming maps. In addition, we have recently created a concept map as part of out instructional design process in Yanghee's class. I find them very useful and helpful in formulating and organizing my thoughts and ideas. Concept mapping is very helpful for those learners who need a visual representation of the subject matter. Concept Mapping can be used in curriculum design (curriculum mapping), student learning, assessment, etc.
As mentioned before, a great example of concept mapping is the work we are doing in Yanghee's class. The focus of the class is to create an instructional design project/process. Part of that process was to create an analysis report of our topic. Within this report we created a concept map that showed each step of the process the learner would complete to get to the goal. I found the process very helpful in organizing and making sure each step was covered adequately.
Another example is the process that we use as educators in public school called curriculum mapping. Each department creates a map of their curriculum/instruction and how it flows throughout the school year. See http://www.greece.k12.ny.us/instruction/ela/6-12/curriculum%20mapping/index.htm
Resources:
http://users.edte.utwente.nl/lanzing/cm_home.htm
http://www.ion.uillinois.edu/weblogs/lindeman/archives/teaching/index.html
Groups:
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Disclaimer
Any opinions expressed here, except as specifically noted, are those of the individual authors or commenters and do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the Department of Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences, the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services, or Utah State University.
