Elaborative Retrieval by Concept Mapping: Is It an Effective Study Tactic?

• In Event: 46.086 - Roundtable Session 16
  In Roundtable Session: 46.086-7 - Modern Learning: Cognitive Processes for the 21st Century

Abstract

This research was conducted to investigate the effects of three study strategies on obtaining learning outcomes. A sample of 120 participants was randomly assigned into four conditions: elaborative studying with concept mapping, retrieval practice using writing, retrieval practice using writing with concept map training, and retrieval practice using concept mapping. A posttest was conducted to examine participants’ performance on recall and inference measures. Results revealed that there was no statistically detectable difference in the performance of the outcome test among the four groups. The findings indicated that concept mapping was an equally effective retrieval-based learning activity as conventional retrieval practice using writing as the expressive medium. The discrepancies between the results of this study and prior research were also discussed.

Authors

• Xin Fang, Simon Fraser University

• John Cale Nesbit, Simon Fraser University

• Qing Liu, Simon Fraser University