1. CONCEPT MAPPING RESEARCH & WRITING SKILLS

2. Concept map is a diagram which illustrates relationships between conceptsdiagramconcepts Graphical tool for organising and visually representing knowledgeknowledge Pictorial representation can help ordering, comprehension and recall of information  Especially useful with abstract and complex concepts  Very effective in showing linkages between theoretical concepts  Especially useful as recall aid for people with strong visual memories (photographic memory)  A picture paints a thousand words...

3. Concept Map for Concept Maps Source: Adapted from Joseph Novak, 2010

4. Drawing Concept Maps  Can vary considerably in terms of complexity – from the very simple (e.g. Basic spido-gram style) to the more elaborate multi-dimensional maps  Use of colour is recommended to delineate and highlight specific areas  Arrows used to link related concepts – may be accompanied by link words; such as ‘affect’, ‘lead to’, ‘cause’, ‘contradict’, ‘necessary for’, etc.) See Buzan’s iMindmapping for more details and ideas: http://www.imindmap.com/videos/http://www.imindmap.com/videos/

5. Activity Imagine that you are required to write an essay on one of the following topics. Develop a Concept Map that will assist you in designing a plan for your essay: TECHNOLOGY AND THE ‘ARAB SPRING’ A PRESIDENCY FOR THE TIMES: THE IRISH PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION 2011 THE EURO CRISIS: WHERE TO NOW FOR IRELAND?

6. Further Reading Novak, J.D. (2010); Learning, Creating, and Using Knowledge: Concept Maps As Facilitative Tools in Schools and Corporations, 2 nd Edition, New Jersey: Routledge. Cottrell, S. (2008) The study skills handbook, (3 rd ed ition) Palgrave, UK. chs 8&9.