A Theoretical View on Concept Mapping

Auto-monitoring is the pivotal concept in understanding the operation of concept maps, which have been used to help learners make sense of their study and plan learning activities. Central to auto-monitoring is the idea of a 'learning arena ' where individuals can manipulate concept representations and engage in the processes of checking, resolving and confirming understandings. The learner is assisted by familiar metaphors (for example, networks) and the possibility of thinking 'on action ' while 'in action'. This paper discusses these concepts, and concludes by arguing that maps are part of the process of learning rather than a manifestation of learning itself. Auto-monitoring is suggested as an appropriate term to describe the process of engaging in the learning arena. 'It is in these shimmering and incessant embraces that the infinite patterns, the infinite Maps of the Mind, are created, nurtured and grown. Radiant Thinking reflects your internal structure and processes. The Mind Map is your external mirror of your own Radiant Thinking and allows you to access this vast thinking powerhouse. ' Tony Buzan (1993). Definition Auto-monitoring is a technique of personal or group knowledge-presentation and re-presenta-tion. Such techniques are often supported by computer applications that make graphical representations of knowledge structures. This process is at the core of what is called concept mapping. Context and background Learning technology comprises a collection of pragmatic and theoretical positions on the way learners come to know and teachers provide the appropriate experiences. At its core is a developing design philosophy that uses instructional design theory or educational technology. Within learning technology is an interest in what some might call content free courseware o