CONCEPT MAPPING
Concept maps are a kind of graphic framework which allow to depict knowledge (Novak; Cañas, 2006; Novak; Gowin, 1984; Novak, 1990a, 1990b). They are made up of concepts and relationships between different concepts, generally referred to as cross links, or connecting narrative.
CONCEPT MAPS are graphical representations of your thoughts, they can be highly structured (hierarchical) or more of a mind map (network structure).
They are composed of concepts contained within a square, or circle, the concepts are the ‘subject part of a sentence’.
They are also composed of linking phrases which label the ‘lines joining the concepts’, these linking phrases form the predicate part of a sentence (the part of a sentence or clause containing a verb and stating something about the subject (e.g. ‘went home’ in ‘John went home’ ).
Concept maps can also be called- Node-link diagrams, Semantic maps, Graphic organisers, Conceptual maps, Knowledge maps or even mind maps.
But do be careful as ‘mind maps’ are often promoted as not containing the all-important ‘linking phrases’ They can, and, in the case of yours for the assignment, should include references to support the connections made.
The origin of concept maps can be traced through the theories of David P. Ausubel in his work on meaningful learning (Ausubel, 1963, 1968, 2012) which gave rise to a number of graphic tools aimed at facilitating learning. There are three basic elements in Novak’s definition which are present in other types of maps: graphs or frameworks, concepts or ideas, and relationships or links between these concepts.
We will devote a significant amount of time during the on-campus sessions to 'how to construct a concept map' so dont worry too much right now, but dont leave it to late either. You could start by watching the short video on concept mapping (please be aware the video mentions an 'essay' several times - YOU DO NOT HAVE TO WRITE AN ESSAY FOR THIS MODULE.