Concept Maps: An Ausubelian Perspective

Abstract

OriginConcept maps were invented at Cornell University in the early 1970s in response to a need to explore growth in conceptual understanding of children in a 12-year longitudinal study of children's learning of science concepts (Novak and Musonda 1991). Audio-tutorial science lessons were provided to children in grades one and two (ages 6--8), and they were subsequently interviewed to assess their understanding of the concepts presented. Similar interviews were done with the same children as they progressed through school through grade 12. Building on Ausubel's assimilation theory of learning and constructivist epistemology, Novak's research group found they could summarize the interviews on a concept map and show specific changes in children's concept and propositional knowledge of basic science concepts over the 12-year span of the study. Figure 1 shows an example of a concept map and describes the nature of concept maps. Figure 2a, b show concept maps drawn from an interview with a ...