Concept Maps

 Concept Maps

    One thing that I will be sure to do with my future class is to emphasize the importance of making connections. There are many important connections a student should make, such as connections to alternative topics within the same unit, or even other units, connections to different classes, connections to the real world, etc. A concept map is a great way to document these connections. Another benefit is that a concept map is ongoing, and can be added to whenever a new concept is mastered. Not to mention, it allows the student to not only document the things that they know, but also the things that they don't know. With that being said, concept maps make areas that need improvement very clear.

    In terms of concept map formatting, it can be done in many ways. I have personally done both digital and handmade concept maps. Either is effective when done correctly, but the most important thing is that it is easy for the student to understand and easy for them to access as well. For students who do not have the technology available to them during class, a handwritten concept map works just fine. In fact, some may argue that they are more effective when it comes to learning, as students are more likely to remember the concepts that they physically write on a piece of paper. Regardless, it is very important that students are able to add to their concept maps during class as they acquire more knowledge on a given concept.

    Below I have attached two concept maps, one digital and one handmade. The digital representation is an example of a relatively complete concept map, whereas the handmade representation is one that has just begun. All concept maps are VALID! It is for one person's learning ONLY! Whatever works for them, works for them.

Digital - Finished

Handmade - Unfinished