Abstract:

Background:
Concept maps and knowledge maps have been used to promote meaningful learning by students. The traditional pen-and-paper approach to such maps requires manual grading that generates a heavy workload for time-poor educators. Current computer-based tools are unable to provide reliable feedback in a user-friendly online environment.

Summary of Work:
Our software, UNSW Knowledge Maps, is a cloud-based interactive knowledge mapping system. This system can be used to create, edit and share maps and students can receive automated graphical feedback in real-time. The system can be accessed without the installation of third party applications or plugins, increasing usability.

Summary of Results:
Preliminary studies indicate a high uptake by students enrolled in the Medicine program and Medical Science courses. With one group of students, our data demonstrates a significantly higher perception of understanding after using the maps. A second group of students show improved learning outcomes in a pre-test post-test study.

Discussion:
The trials conducted thus far demonstrate that UNSW Knowledge Maps is a readily accepted tool for concept and knowledge mapping by students. The native web-based interface enhances usability by lowering the barriers for uptake. Initial studies suggest that UNSW Knowledge Maps provides benefits for learning by medical students.

Conclusions:
Our preliminary data suggests that UNSW Knowledge Maps is a readily accepted and useful educational tool. We have also developed an assessment mode in which teachers can create activities with automated grading and feedback.

Take-home Messages:
UNSW Knowledge Maps is an online educational tool that fosters engagement in meaningful learning, critical thinking, and problem solving skills. While still in its early stages, we believe this tool could prove valuable for students in a variety of disciplines.

Keywords:

Concept/knowledge mapping, web-based learning, feedback.