Concept mapping
Contents
Definition
Concept mapping is The process of organizing and representing knowledge using concept maps.
Summary
Concept mapping is a mapping process which produces a concept map. It facilitates several knowledge processes, including codification and learning.
Description
Outcome
The outcome of concept mapping is a concept map.
Constructing good concept maps
Each concept map is set in a context, and the mapping process should include or even begin by defining this context. A good way to define the context for a concept map is to construct a Focus Question, that is, a question that clearly specifies the problem or issue the concept map should help to resolve. A well formed focus question increases the quality of concept mapping process and the resulting concept map.
Given a selected domain and a defined question or problem in this domain, the next step is to identify the key concepts that apply to this domain. Usually 15 to 25 concepts will suffice. These concepts could be listed, and then from this list a rank ordered list should be established. The most general, most inclusive concept, for this particular problem or situation should be put at the top of the list, and the most specific, least general concept at the bottom of the list.
The next step is to construct a preliminary concept map. Group work may be necessary as one begins to struggle with the process of building a good hierarchical organization. Computer software programs are even better in that they allow moving of concepts together with linking statements and the moving of groups of concepts and links to restructure the map.
It is important to recognize that a concept map is never finished. After a preliminary map is constructed, it is always necessary to revise this map. Other concepts can be added. Good maps usually result from three to many revisions. This is one reason why using computer software is helpful.
Once the preliminary map is built, cross-links should be sought. These are links between concepts in different domains of knowledge on the map that help to illustrate how these domains are related to one another. Cross-links are important in order to show that the learner understands the relationships between the sub-domains in the map.
Finally, the map should be revised, concepts re-positioned in ways that lead to clarity and better over-all structure. When computer software is used, one can go back, change the size and font style add colors etc to highlight the map where necessary.
Source: Reference [1]
Concept mapping and knowledge processes
Concept mapping facilitates knowledge processes:
- Finding: Finding relevant knowledge is usually necessary during the mapping process
- Codification: Concept mapping results in codified knowledge in the form of concept map
- Combination: As concept mapping involves creating hierarchical links and cross-references between concepts it combines the related concepts in a logical form.
- Creation: Organising concepts hierarchically creates new knowledge.
- Disposal: As concept mapping creates logic by organising the selected concepts, it is possible that, during this process, knowledge which needs to be disposed is identified.
- Learning: Learning is a typical objective of concept mapping process. Participants of the mapping process learn from each other and from the mapping. Also, the whole organisation may learn from the process.
- Maintenance: Concept mapping keeps knowledge in good condition and improves its usability.
- Sharing: During the mapping process, knowledge is shared between the participants
- Transformation: Mapping transforms implicit knowledge to explicit knowledge.
- Validation: As concept mapping organises concepts and creates structure, it provides a possibility for validating the content as well.
References
[1] Joseph D. Novak, Alberto J. Cañas, The Theory Underlying Concept Maps and How to Construct and Use Them, Technical Report IHMC CmapTools 2006-01 Rev 2008-01, http://cmap.ihmc.us/Publications/ResearchPapers/TheoryCmaps/TheoryUnderlyingConceptMaps.htm.
