Definition of a Concept Map: from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concept_map

A concept map is a diagram showing the relationships among concepts. Concepts are connected with labeled arrows, in a downward-branching hierarchical structure. The relationship between concepts is articulated in linking phrases, e.g., "gives rise to", "results in", "is required by," or "contributes to". Concept mapping is a technique for visualizing the relationships among different concepts.

The technique of concept mapping was developed by Joseph D. Novak and his research team at Cornell University in the 1970s as a means of representing the emerging science knowledge of students. It has subsequently been used as a tool to increase meaningful learning in the sciences and other subjects as well as to represent the expert knowledge of individuals and teams in education, government and business.

Benefits of Concept Maps:
from http://www.tki.org.nz/r/esol/esolonline/classroom/teach_strats/concept_map_e.php

This diagrammatic overview of the topic helps tie new information to existing knowledge. It can be used to introduce a topic, finding out what students already know and providing a framework for studying the topic. It can be added to as the learning progresses or it can be used for review at the end of a unit. It may be teacher organized, teacher and student organized or student organized. It can be used individually, in pairs or small groups.

Students developing concept maps use paired or small group discussion to:

• link new information to existing knowledge;

• think about relationships between ideas;

• categorize ideas;

• clarify their thoughts;

• learn key vocabulary.

Examples of a Concept Map:

Saint Nicolas

Earth as a System

Superheros

Four Major Categories of Concept Maps:
from http://classes.aces.uiuc.edu/ACES100/Mind/c-m2.html

SPIDER CONCEPT MAP
The"spider" concept map is organized by placing the central theme or unifying factor in the center of the map. Outwardly radiating sub-themes surround the center of the map.

HIERARCHY CONCEPT MAP
The hierarchy concept map presents information in a descending order of importance. The most important information is placed on the top. Distinguishing factors determine the placement of the information.

FLOWCHART CONCEPT MAP
The flowchart concept map organizes information in a linear format.

SYSTEMS CONCEPT MAP
The systems concept map organizes information in a format which is similar to a flowchart with the addition of 'INPUTS' and 'OUTPUTS'.

Concept Mapping Software

The web site http://www.graphic.org/concept.html is great for first learning how to develop concept maps. There is an explanation and diagram of a concept map. There are also two links for software to make concept maps with. One is Smart Draw and it is a free download. The other is Mindjet and it must be purchased.

The following is a list of notable concept mapping software
from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_concept_mapping_software. This software should allow a user to graphically create and save concept maps.

1. Axon Idea Processor makes concept maps; has many tools and features. Windows.
2. 3D Topicscape translates concept maps to three dimensions (Windows-based). Provides for relationship descriptions.
3. Inspiration flexible concept mapping software. Mac & PC.
4. Kidspiration version of Inspiration for school children. Mac & PC.
5. MindManager software that can make concept maps, though more aimed at mind maps. Mac & Windows.
6. OpenMind software for creating concept maps, mind maps, timelines, business plans etc. Mac & Windows.
7. Semantica Mac OS X & Windows.
8. SmartDraw Windows.
9. Tinderbox software has a view that supports constructing concept maps. Mac OS X.
10. XMIND is a concept mapping tool, a mind mapping tool, and also a fishbone chart tool. Multiplatform.

Videos on Concept Mapping:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhgxuNvbNrA - This video is on You Tube and it tells about how to use concept maps as a start to writing a research paper.

http://www.studygs.net/mapping/buzanmap.htm – This video is a “How to Concept or Mind Map” by Tony Buzan

Article on Concept Mapping:

http://www.education-world.com/a_tech/tech164.shtml – This article comes from Education World and is about Concept Mapping in the classroom.

Haley Armstrong