Title: WWW-intensive concept mapping for metacognition in solving ill-structured problems

Authors: Slavi Stoyanov, Piet Kommers

Addresses: Open University of the Netherlands, OTEC, P.O. Box 2960, 6401 DL Heerlen, The Netherlands. ' University of Twente, Faculty of Behavioural Science, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands

Abstract: Concept mapping is one of the most intimate and most dynamic learning support activities that needs still a drastic further evolution of methods and tools. WWW-based concept mapping gains momentum quite fast now and needs a solid reviewing of the various approaches and the empirical effects. This article bridges the technological advance of WWW-based concept mapping tools and its more recent effects on learning by problem solving. The results show that it added value manifests in the phases of idea generation and selection. The mapping approach caused a broader perception and a greater diversity of ideas. The conclusion is that further investments are needed to make WWW-based mapping more accessible and integrated in WWW-based learning management systems.

Keywords: web-based learning tools; concept mapping; problem solving; idea generation; rich internet applications; metacognition; ill-structured problems; learning support; learning management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCEELL.2006.009205

International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning, 2006 Vol.16 No.3/4, pp.297 - 316

Published online: 09 Mar 2006 *

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