A concept map is a visual representation of information that shows the relationships between concepts or ideas. It consists of nodes or boxes representing concepts and lines or arrows connecting them to illustrate how these concepts are linked. Concept maps are used to organize and understand complex topics, facilitate learning, brainstorm ideas, and communicate information in a structured and visually appealing manner.
How to create a concept map
Creating a concept map with FigJam's concept map maker is a straightforward process. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Set up the template
Begin by selecting the concept map template in FigJam, a free tool for concept mapping. Customize the template to suit your specific needs by exploring the available tools.
Step 2: Choose a topic
Identify the topic you want to explore and place it in the center box. This central concept serves as your starting point and is often the focus question or key concept.
Step 3: Brainstorm related concepts
Generate additional concepts related to your chosen topic and represent each one as a separate shape. Take note of the areas you're knowledgeable about and those you wish to delve into further.
Step 4: Draw connections between these concepts
With your key concepts in place, establish connections between them. These connections can be indicated with lines or brief phrases describing their relationships.
Step 5: Establish a hierarchy
Arrange your concepts hierarchically. Generally, the most general and broadly applicable ideas occupy the top positions, while more specific and specialized ideas are positioned lower. However, you can adapt this structure to best suit your needs.
Step 6: Draw from research
Review your research materials to fill in any missing information and enhance your understanding of how concepts relate to each other and to the central concept or focus question.
Step 7: Collaborate with your team
Collaborate with team members in real-time by inviting them to contribute to the concept map. Alternatively, share the final concept map to facilitate knowledge sharing and learning among your team.
What are the different types of concept maps?
Concept maps come in various types, each designed for specific purposes and applications. Some common types of concept maps include:
Hierarchical Concept Map: This type of concept map organizes concepts in a hierarchical or tree-like structure, with a central concept at the top and sub-concepts branching out beneath it.
Spider Concept Map: In a spider concept map, a central concept is connected to several related concepts, resembling a spider's web.
Flowchart Concept Map: This type of concept map uses arrows and lines to illustrate the flow or sequence of concepts or ideas, making it useful for process diagrams and decision-making.
Systematic Concept Map: Systematic concept maps are structured and highly organized, often used in technical or scientific fields to represent complex systems or processes.
When to use a Concept Map Template
Concept Map Templates are versatile tools that can be used in various situations. Here are some scenarios where using a concept map template can be beneficial:
- Education and Learning:
Concept maps are excellent for summarizing and visualizing complex topics in subjects like science, history, or literature. They can help in studying and understanding relationships between concepts.
- Brainstorming and Idea Generation:
Concept maps help generate and organize ideas during brainstorming sessions. They can stimulate creative thinking and identify connections between different concepts.
- Project Planning:
Concept maps can be used in project management to outline project goals, tasks, and dependencies. They help teams get a clear overview of project components and their relationships.
- Problem Solving:
When tackling complex problems, concept maps can help break down the problem into its components and identify potential solutions and their implications.
The advantages of using a Concept Map Template
Using a Concept Map Template offers several advantages:
Clarity and Visualization
Concept maps provide a clear visual representation of complex information, making it easier to understand and grasp relationships between concepts.
Organized Information
Templates guide users in structuring their thoughts, ensuring that information is organized in a logical and coherent manner.
Simplification of Complex Topics
They simplify complex topics by breaking them down into manageable components, helping learners or readers comprehend the subject more easily.
Enhanced Learning
In educational settings, concept maps facilitate active learning and help students remember and apply knowledge more effectively.
Example of concept maps
Imagine you're eager to explore the intricate topic of climate change. Begin by placing "Climate Change" in the heart of your concept map and extend connections to related aspects such as causes, evidence, and solutions.
Next, engage in a collaborative brainstorming session with your team to expand upon these topic clusters. Use solid or dotted lines to interconnect ideas, illustrating their relationships.
During your concept map session, encourage your creativity to flow freely. Don't hesitate to jot down even the most unconventional or seemingly unrealistic ideas – connections tend to emerge as you add more concepts. Remember, concept mapping should be an enjoyable and enlightening process!
