Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 14, 2026
06:26
Meta-analysis of Voxel-Based Neuroimaging Studies using Seed-based d Mapping with Permutation of Subject Images SDM-PSI
Published on: November 27, 2019
78.7K
A systematic review of concept mapping dissertations
1Institute for Autism Research, Department of Counseling and Human Services, Canisius College, 2001 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14208, USA.
Evaluation and Program Planning
|October 4, 2016
Summary
This study synthesized 108 doctoral dissertations using concept mapping methodology. Findings show consistent application and results comparable to prior research, highlighting its value in diverse academic fields.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Education
- Psychology
Background:
- Concept mapping, developed by Trochim, is a visual tool for knowledge organization.
- Its application in doctoral research has grown significantly since 1985.
- Previous syntheses by Trochim (1993) and Rosas & Kane (2012) provide foundational insights.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify, summarize, and synthesize doctoral dissertations utilizing Trochim's concept mapping methodology.
- To analyze trends and characteristics of concept mapping applications in dissertations from 1985 to 2014.
- To compare findings with previous reviews on concept mapping in research.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search identified 108 eligible dissertations.
- 104 dissertations were analyzed for 77 coded variables.
- Descriptive analyses were used to summarize the data.
Main Results:
- Dissertations spanned diverse topic areas and were completed at 35 universities across the US and Canada.
- The mean multidimensional scaling stress value for 96 concept maps was 0.26 (SD=0.05).
- Reliability and validity were addressed in most studies, though formally assessed in a minority.
Conclusions:
- Concept mapping methodology has been consistently applied in doctoral research across various disciplines.
- The findings align with previous syntheses, indicating sustained utility and comparable outcomes.
- Future research should explore formal assessment of reliability and validity in concept mapping studies.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Understanding Self-Concept
376
The self-concept encompasses individuals' beliefs about themselves, structured through cognitive frameworks known as self-schemas. These schemas function as mental representations of specific traits or behaviors, influencing how self-relevant information is perceived, processed, and remembered. For example, individuals who are schematic for body weight are more likely to interpret routine experiences—such as dining out or shopping—through the lens of that trait. Conversely, those...
376
01:24Concepts and Prototypes
613
The human nervous system handles vast amounts of information by translating sensory stimuli into neural impulses, which the brain processes, creating thoughts expressed through language or stored as memories. The brain also synthesizes information from emotions and memories, which significantly influence thoughts and behaviors. This intricate process creates a comprehensive mental picture.
The brain organizes this information using concepts, which are mental categories grouping linguistic data,...
The brain organizes this information using concepts, which are mental categories grouping linguistic data,...
613
01:24Natural and Artificial Concepts
656
In psychology, concepts can be divided into two categories: natural and artificial. Natural concepts are formed through direct or indirect experiences. For example, consider the concept of snow. If you live in a place with regular snowfall, such as Essex Junction, Vermont, you know snow through direct experiences. You’ve seen it fall, touched it, shoveled it, and played in it. You recognize its texture, appearance, and even its smell. In contrast, if you live on an island like Saint...
656
01:29Concepts of Health and Illness
19.2K
Health is a condition of the body, mind, and spirit where an individual remains free from illness. Similarly, wellness is an active state, including living a lifestyle that promotes physical, mental, and emotional health. Physical health is critical for the overall well-being and can be affected by lifestyle, activity level, diet, and behavior. The highest attainable standard of health is a fundamental and universal human right. Consider Lisa, a fifteen-year-old born with congenital...
19.2K
01:42Schemas
12.5K
A schema is a mental construct consisting of a cluster or collection of related concepts (Bartlett, 1932). There are many different types of schemata, and they all have one thing in common: schemata are a method of organizing information that allows the brain to work more efficiently. When a schema is activated, the brain makes immediate assumptions about the person or object being observed.
12.5K
01:17Schemata
438
A schema is a mental construct that organizes related concepts, allowing the brain to process information efficiently. Upon activation, schemata facilitate assumptions about people or objects.
Two types of schemata are:
Two types of schemata are:
438