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Learning Objective #1: differentiate among the various types and uses of concept maps to facilitate multisensory learning, interactive learning, and critical thinking.

Learning Objective #2: expand and refine his or her use of concept mapping as a teaching and evaluation strategy.

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Many nurse educators use concept mapping as a teaching strategy. It is popular because concept mapping has high visibility at conferences and in the nursing literature, and because educators recognize and understand the following: � the need to include interactive activities in their repertoire of teaching strategies � the importance of incorporating multiple-sensory activities that appeal to various types of learners � the value of activities that encourage critical thinking Unfortunately, concept mapping often fails to achieve its full potential as a learning strategy, and many educators fail to recognize the wide variety of learning applications for which it is appropriate. This may occur because the teacher does not have a full and clear understanding about: �what a concept map actually is (and is not) �the different types (hierarchical and nonhierarchical) of concept maps and their differences �how concept maps work to facilitate learning �the variety of purposes for which they can be used This presentation will define the term �concept map,� describe and illustrate differences between hierarchical and nonhierarchical maps, and summarize their many educational benefits and uses. Use of concept maps for clinical preparation will specifically be discussed. A variety of ways to create both hierarchical and non-hierarchical maps (including care planning maps) will be illustrated. Participants will work together in small groups to create a map of their choosing. This session is especially useful for teachers who wish to expand and refine their use of concept mapping as a teaching/evaluation strategy.