Laddering
Definition
A hierarchical diagram of concepts
Description
Laddering and concept mapping are diagrammatic ways of representing knowledge in a particular area or ‘knowledge domain’. Laddering uses a hierarchical approach to show relationships between concepts (see Fig. 1).
A concept map is similar to a ladder. However, the layout usually starts from a central theme and shows concepts as nodes and the relationships between them as labelled arrows (see Fig. 2).
Laddering and concept mapping techniques can be used with interview techniques to model knowledge. Alternatively experts can contribute directly to the production of the models. In this way, ladders and concept maps provide a better way of identifying and capturing tacit knowledge rather than interviews alone.
