Using and Selecting Graphic Techniques to Acquire Structural Knowledge

Abstract

Structural knowledge, the knowledge of relationships between concepts in a content area, is essential for comprehension and problem solving. Learning structural knowledge can be facilitated through learner-generated two-dimensional diagrams of conceptual relationships. These diagrams include networks, concept maps, pattern notes, semantic maps and graphic organizers. In this paper, we describe the characteristics of graphic techniques and the cognitive processes that learners use to construct the diagrams. We then propose a model that can be used to choose between different graphic techniques based upon the cognitive processes elicited by the techniques and the learning outcomes derived from their use.