Abstract:

The paper describes the use of concept maps for the presentation of transient phenomena and response issues in linear electrical circuits comprising elements such as resistors, inductors and/or capacitors. Response of linear circuits often causes confusion to students (due to the multiple cases that have to be addressed) so the use of concept maps aims at helping them form a well structured overview of the response cases and their interrelations and contributing to the students’ conceptual understanding regarding response issues. The relevant lecture is a 2-hour one and is implemented in the context of the 1st-semester course “Electric Circuits I” offered at the Dept. of Electrical & Electronic Engineering Educators, School of Pedagogical & Technological Education (ASPETE), Athens, Greece.
Concept maps are used to present response cases on the types of following types of linear circuits:
• 1st order circuits containing a resistor and either a capacitor or an inductor.
• 2st order circuits containing a resistor, an inductor and a capacitor in tandem.
• 2st order circuits containing a resistor, an inductor and a capacitor in parallel.
In future implementations (from the coming academic year) the students will be also encouraged to work on the relevant concepts maps by themselves (e.g. regarding essential facts of each response case, inclusion of additional specific cases etc.) with the additional aim to become capable of using concept maps either in other topics of their studies or, in the future, as instructors themselves.

Keywords:

Engineering Education, Electrical Engineering Education, Electric Circuits, Concept Maps.