Information and digital literacy in education via the digital path

Mind mapping and conceptmapping are ways tovisually represent information and ideas. Though often used interchangeably, educators define themin distinct ways. A mind map is a spontaneous way of showing the association between ideas. A concept map is a more deliberate and structured way of representing the relationship between ideas (Davies 2011, 280). Maps usually contain several ideas articulated in words and images: a mindmap contains arrows drawn between associated ideas (seeexample from Char Booth’s Info-mationalblog)while a concept map typically labels arrowswith descriptions of how those ideas relate to each other(seeexample fromIHMC CmapTools). The visual, non-linear nature of both mapping techniques makes them useful tools for educators who want to help students think through complex ideas and processes in accessible ways .While mapping can be achieved with pen and paper, there are a range of mapping programs that allow teachers and students toeasilycreate and share maps.