Passport to the University: Using cognitive mapping to increase student knowledge of and connection to the University. Diane E. Wille Indiana University Southeast

Introduction This activity has two goals – To enhance students’ understanding of cognitive maps through application – To assist the students in learning about the resources available on campus.

Methods Three assignments – Assignment one -- Beginning of semester Students draw a map of their campus marking the locations (buildings and offices) with which they have familiarity.

Beginning of semester cognitive map

– Assignment two -- During the semester Passport assignment – Student visits important campus offices » Writing Help Center » Library » Academic Success Center » Student Development Center » Computer lab » Career Services » Student Involvement Center » My Professor’s Office » Math Lab » School or Division Office » Administrative Student Affairs

End of semester Students redraw the map of their campus marking the locations (buildings and offices) with which they have familiarity. The students then compare their original map with their current map. Changes are noted and the reasons for the changes are discussed.

End of semester cognitive map

Results PrePostt Buildings ** Name Buildings ** _____________________________________________ **p<.01

Discussion Goals met through this activity – Hands on activities enhance learning. – Students acquire a knowledge of cognitive maps and factors influencing the development of cognitive maps. – Students acquire more detailed knowledge of their university by the end of the semester. Draw more buildings Accurately label the buildings

Paper presented at the CTUP session at MPA, Chicago, IL Author contact information: Diane E. Wille School of Social Sciences IU Southeast 4201 Grant Line Road New Albany, IN