Concept maps: what and why

Sri Sundari
MEDU FKIK UMY

This is our brain.

Information travels around the

brain over neurons like this.

When you learn something, a

new connection is formed
between neurons.

Its an actual
physical connection

Neural networks in the brain

What is a concept map?

Also called a mind map
Organizes information like an outline
but less linear, more spatial
Connections are made between pieces
of information in different areas

A pictoral way of important information you

need to understand, remember, or write
about.
An excellent first step in the writing process.
By creating, reading, and
rereading, you're ready to
write paragraphs, essays,
or study a chapter for
a test!

1.It is easier for the brain to make

meaning when information is presented
in visual formats
2.Concept maps assist student in
handling complex information

Visual learning techniques

help students:
Clarify thinking. Students see how ideas are
connected and realize how information can be
grouped or organized. With visual learning, new
concepts are more thoroughly and easily
understood.
Reinforce understanding. Students recreate, in
their own words, what they've learned. This
helps them absorb and internalize new
information, giving them ownership of their
ideas.

 Integrate new knowledge. Diagrams

updated throughout a lesson prompt
students to build upon prior knowledge and
internalize new information. By reviewing
diagrams created previously, students see
how facts and ideas fit together.
Identify misconceptions. Just as a concept
map or web shows what students know,
misdirected links or wrong connections
reveal what they don't understand.

Four major categories of

concept maps
"Spider": 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

Hierarchical": 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": Organizes information in a

linear format

"Systems": Organizes
information in a format which is
similar to a flowchart with the
addition of 'INPUTS' and
OUTPUTS'.

Examples of concept maps

1.
2.
3.
4.

Preparation (define the problem)

Generation of statements
Structuring of statements
Representation of statements in the
form of a map
5. Interpretation of maps
6. Utilization of maps

Gather the materials to create your map

(paper & pencil) or computer & software
Have research materials (do research
prior to making map)
Select one concept map format
Making first map focus on the central
question

Map Making
Shapes (different shapes for different
types of information)
Colors
For effect
For differentiation (old-new, fact-thought)

Arrows
Words - links
Titles

Dont worry about organization

during initial construction
Spelling and style do not count
Free-association of ideas
Keep ideas simple
Write or sketch in any order
Develop all ideas

Revise your map good maps are like

good writing several drafts
Revise often
Remove concepts/ideas that do not
belong
Now spelling counts
Clear
Neatness
Logical
Attractive

 Concept maps are a better mirror of

how your brain actually makes
connections.

How to make a concept map.