Concept Map

CONCEPT MAP 

Part-1

A concept map is a diagram or graphical tool that visually represents relationships between concepts and ideas. Most concept maps depict ideas as boxes or circles (also called nodes), which are structured hierarchically and connected with lines or arrows (also called arcs). These lines are labeled with linking words and phrases to help explain the connections between concepts. Key features of concept maps Concept maps are also referred to as conceptual diagrams. While other types of diagrams may look similar, concept maps have specific characteristics differentiating them from other visual tools. 

• Concepts Concepts are defined as “perceived regularities or patterns in events or objects, or records of events or objects, designated by a label” and are depicted as shapes in the diagram. 

• Linking words/phrases Linking words or phrases are located on the lines connecting objects in a concept map, and these words describe the relationship between two concepts. They are as concise as possible and typically contain a verb. Examples include "causes," "includes" and "requires." 

• Propositional structure Propositions are meaningful statements made up of two or more concepts connected with linking words. These statements are also known as semantic units or units of meaning. Concepts and propositions are the foundation for the creation of new knowledge in a domain. Essentially, a concept map visually conveys a set of propositions about a certain topic. 

• Hierarchical structure A key element of the concept map is its hierarchical structure. The most general and inclusive concepts are positioned at the top of a concept map with the more specific and exclusive concepts arranged hierarchically below. As such, a concept map is designed to read from top to bottom. • Focus question A focus question defines the issue or problem the concept map needs to solve. Developing a focus question allows you to design with a context in mind and thus helps guide and maintain the direction of your concept map. Within the hierarchical structure, the focus question should be at the very top of the concept map and serve as a reference point. 

• Parking lot Before beginning your concept map, it can be helpful to come up with a list identifying the key concepts that need to be included. Establish a rank ordered list from the most general concept to the most specific. This list is referred to as a parking lot, as you will move the items into the map as you figure out where they fit in. 

• Cross-links Cross-links are relationships between concepts in different domains of the concept map, allowing you to visualize how ideas within these different domains are connected. Both the cross-links and the hierarchical structure facilitate creative thinking, and these cross-links often indicate moments of creativity. 

Types of concept maps

There are four major categories of concept maps. These are distinguished by their different format for representing information. Examples of the various types of concept maps are presented on the following pages. Click over each in order to open a special window that contains several images. After viewing them, click over the upper left corner of the special window to close it. 

a). Spider concept map :- 

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

Advantages 

-Easy to configure 

-All data is organised around a unified theme -Easy to read. 

Disadvantages -

-Difficult to show relationships without making the map very messy and hard to read. 

-Doesn’t allow for integration of all data and the relationships among data. 

b). 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. 

Advantages

- Follw a definite pattern 

-Most general data is located at the top and moves to the most specific. 

-Esy to read. 

Disadvantages

- Shows no interrelationships between data. 

- Does not allow for critical thinking and thus limited problem solving. 

c). Flowchart concept map:- 

The flowchart concept map organizes information in a linear format 

Advantages 

-Easy to read 

-Information is organised in a logical, ordered pattern. 

Disadvantages 

-Very minimal data noted on concept map. 

-Lack of critical thinking. 

-Usually very incomplete.

d). 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'. 

Advantages

-Very complete. 

-Includes all data on the map and shown many relationships between the data. 

-Uses critical thinking skills along with problem solving skills. 

-Link theory and practice very well. 

Disadvantages

-Sometimes difficult to read because a number of relationships noted.

 -Takes more time to complete.