Research with Concept Maps

Introduction

• Concept Map: Tool to help identify a research topic.
• Video by North Seattle College Library.

Getting Started with Research

• Choosing a Topic: Start with something that interests you and is related to your assignment.
• Easier to research something you are genuinely interested in.

Example Topic: Climate Change

• Step 1: Write down the topic.
• Step 2: Brainstorm questions and known concepts related to the topic.
  • Don't worry about understanding all aspects initially; learning happens during research.

Organizing with a Concept Map

• Central Theme: Write it in the middle of the paper and circle it.
• Main Ideas: Pick the most interesting ideas from brainstorming and place them in bubbles around the central theme.
• Relationships: Use arrows to show relationships between ideas (one or both directions).

Expanding the Concept Map

• Add more ideas and connections from brainstorming.
• Continue expanding until a clear direction is identified.
• Focus Area: Select the most interesting subtopic.

Selecting a Research Focus

• Example: "Solutions to climate change" is chosen as a subtopic.
• Further brainstorming to specify more detailed topics.
  • Example subtopic: "Public pressure on companies to address climate change."
• Ensure the topic fits assignment guidelines.

Conclusion

• Concept maps help in narrowing down a research topic to a manageable scope.
• Ready to start looking for information.

Additional Support

• Contact a librarian for questions on concept mapping or other research aspects.