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.]] USAGE Concept maps are used to stimulate idea generation, and are believed to aid Creativity . For example, concept mapping is sometimes used for Brain-storming . Although they are often personalized and idiosyncratic, concept maps can be used to communicate complex ideas. Formalized concept maps are used in Software Design , where a common usage is Unified Modeling Language diagramming amongst similar conventions and development methodologies. Concept mapping can also be seen as a first step in Ontology -building, and can also be used flexibly to represent formal argument. Concept maps are widely used in education and business for:
Contrast with mind mapping Concept mapping can be contrasted with the similar idea of Mind Mapping . The latter is restricted to radial hierarchies and Tree Structure s. Among the various schema and techniques for visualizing ideas, processes, organisations, concept mapping, as developed by Novak is unique in philosophical basis, which "makes concepts, and propositions composed of concepts, the central elements in the structure of knowledge and construction of meaning." Novak, J.D. & Gowin, D.B. (1996). Learning How To Learn, Cambridge University Press: New York, p. 7. There is research evidence that knowledge stored in the brain is hierarchical, with propositions as the core building blocks, because concept maps are constructed to reflect these organizational elements of knowledge, they facilitate sense-making and meaningful learning on the part of individuals who make concept maps and those who use them. Concept maps were developed to enhance meaningful learning in the sciences. A well made concept map grows within a ''context frame'' defined by an explicit "focus question," while a mind map has branches radiating out from a central picture. EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE Decades of empirical and qualitative research has verified the efficacy of concept maps for the tasks mentioned above. The technique of concept mapping was developed by in the 1970s , as a way to increase meaningful learning in the sciences. Concept maps have their origin in the learning movement called Constructivism . In particular, constructivists hold that prior knowledge is used as a framework for understanding and learning new knowledge. Novak's work is based on the theories of David Ausubel ( Assimilation Theory ), who stressed the importance of prior knowledge in being able to learn new concepts. "The most important single factor influencing learning is what the learner already knows. Ascertain this and teach accordingly." (Ausubel, D. (1968) Educational Psychology: A Cognitive View. Holt, Rinehart & Winston, New York). In his book ''Learning to Learn'', Novak states that "meaningful learning involves the assimilation of new concepts and propositions into existing cognitive structures." CONCEPT MAPPING SOFTWARE
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