There are two features of concept maps that are important: the hierarchical structure that is represented in a good map; and the ability to search for and characterize cross-links.
In a concept map the concepts should be represented in a hierarchical fashion with the general concepts at the top of the map then leading to more specific ones as you move down.
It seems that the best way to begin your concept map is with reference to a question you want to answer or a situation you are trying to understand.
The cross links are relationships between concepts in different sections of the concept map. Cross-links help us to see how some sections represented on the map are related to another section.
Additionally another feature that can help on concept maps are specific examples or actual imaegs of events or objects that help to clarify the meaning of a given concept.
Reference: http://www.vickiblackwell.com/inspiration.html
Therese,
ReplyDeleteI like both the content of your blog post and the graphical design of your blog. The two or these elements come together create a very well informationally designed blog. The content of your blog post is very readable (both typography choice and well written) and you make it very easy to understand how to create an effective a good concept map.
On another feature I like the cool color choices you've chosen as the blog posts foreground and also the coolness and intentional fuzziness of the background. They work very well together. This is a very "soothing" blog to look at. I'd be able to spend a lot of time on this blog without feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Nice job!
-Andrew LeBarron
Thanks for the great compliment - blue clear skies always work wonders for me...
ReplyDeleteGood post. I really like how you explained the concept map. It made it easier to understand. The illustration really helps further the message you are trying to convey.
ReplyDeleteConcept Maps remind me of Flow Charts; however, the two processes seem to differ in an important way. I had been involved with the Flow Charting process within R&D. In those situations, the flow charts had been used to best describe a sequence of actions rather than used to develop the most effective sequence. The flowcharts used a predefined “language” of forms or shapes which had specific meanings and uses in diagramming (I still have a template as a souvenir of those days). Concept Mapping seems to emphasize more of the “big picture” attitude by starting with its focus question.
ReplyDeleteChoosing a focus question ties in with Roam’s approach of visual problem solving; generating ideas through quick sketches and simple diagrams instead of sophisticated graphics or layers of text. A winnowing process like Roam’s helps clarify the focus question and develop the hierarchy for categorizing concepts and linking relationships. Unlike earlier flowcharting, Concept Mapping doesn’t require predefined visual graphics to represent the concepts or show relationships. The graphics or visuals, as recommended by Roam, can just be boxes or circles, plain words, simple lines and arrows. More thinking can be spent on ideas, concepts, and relationships than quibbling over flowchart shapes!
Gwen Lubey