Schools Go Green with Synapses Academies – Summer School 2024

Concept Maps

For more complex scenario structures and to support the planning of the competence improvement opportunity, associated with the assessment pit-stops, a concept map can be a very valuable tool. It can help map the content knowledge with the associated interconnections. Concept maps can help students understand how the different concepts are interconnected and while addressing the presented challenges define which are the competencies that can be improved in each of the steps.

The use of concept maps is of particular importance to facilitate a more in-depth understanding of sustainability citizenship and what is required to acquire or improve the relevant competencies. It helps improve students’ critical thinking and problem-solving competencies as they have to acquire, analyse and reflect on the data acquired.

Concept maps support innovative assessment by visually representing students’ understanding and organization of knowledge, making their learning processes transparent. These maps allow students to demonstrate their understanding of complex relationships between concepts, making their knowledge and skill level more evident. Teachers can use concept maps to assess the depth of students’ comprehension and their ability to connect ideas. This form of assessment encourages active learning, creativity, and the integration of new knowledge with existing knowledge, providing a more holistic and insightful evaluation of student learning.

Here are some examples of digital tools that can be used for the creation of concept maps:

MindMeister

MindMeister is a very user-friendly and colourful option for the creation of concept maps. It offers a free plan that allows users to create up to three mind maps. It’s a great tool for brainstorming and organizing ideas visually.

Canva

Canva is a multifunctional digital tool. Among other solutions, it offers the possibility of concept map creation. It provides a tour for beginners and already-prepared templates to get users started. The tool offers the possibility of having several users at the same time. Teachers might opt to create the concept map and then provide individual copies for their students or invite students to create their own concept maps.

LucidChart

Lucidchart is another user-friendly tool that includes a free version for educators willing to build a concept map. It supports real-time collaboration, making it easy for students and teachers to work together on concept maps.

Many other tools will provide the same features or more add-ons. Get started with one of them and then explore their potential to improve student’s learning experience.