An external network-like representation of knowledge structures consisting of spatially grouped nodes with keywords representing concepts, connecting lines representing the semantic connection of concepts, and labels on the lines specifying the kind of semantic relation. In its simplest form, a concept map would consist of two concepts and a linking word, e.g. cats – are – mammals. Concept maps are potentially valuable tools for planning, learning, and (self-) assessment. When used for planning activities, concept maps allow an overview and the detection of the ‘red line’ running through different topics, steps, or key concepts. In learning settings, concept mapping can facilitate organization and elaboration processes leading eventually to the construction of high-level cognitive schemas. For assessment, concept maps provide the possibility to tap into a learner’s cognitive structure and externalize, for both the learner and the teacher, what the learner already knows and does not know. (Source: Seel 2012).
