Concept mapping: An important guide for the mathematics teaching process

Abstract

The chapter deals with a particular way of using concept maps to contribute to the learning of mathematics by students who begin their formation in engineering at university level. The focus is on a particular process of teaching. When the expert in mathematics analyses in detail the material of his assignment, he is able to realise that within the structure of knowledge itself, a group of concept maps are found in an implicit way. The maps made by the professor are of great importance when he uses them as a guide for his performance in the classroom. When the teacher utilises in the classroom a guided way of performing with the maps, he implements a didactic strategy and he helps students to develop skills of thought to achieve meaningful learning. This way of performing allows the development of the processes of basic thinking in mathematics; it facilitates the understanding of concepts and the application of them within the process of solving problems. © 2009 Springer-Verlag US.