Kinds of Concept Maps

There are four major categories of concept maps. These are distinguished by their different format for representing information. Examples of the various types of concept maps are presented on the following pages. Click over each in order to open a special window that contains several images. After viewing them, click over the upper left corner of the special window to close it.

Four Major Categories of Concept Maps:

SPIDER CONCEPT MAP
The"spider" concept map is organized by placing the central theme or unifying factor in the center of the map. Outwardly radiating sub-themes surround the center of the map.

HIERARCHY CONCEPT MAP
The hierarchy concept map presents information in a descending order of importance. The most important information is placed on the top. Distinguishing factors determine the placement of the information.

FLOWCHART CONCEPT MAP
The flowchart concept map organizes information in a linear format.

SYSTEMS CONCEPT MAP
The systems concept map organizes information in a format which is similar to a flowchart with the addition of 'INPUTS' and 'OUTPUTS'.