Concept Map-based Assessment for Adult Learners

Abstract. The use of Concept Maps for assessment of learning in children has been studied extensively. Likewise, though to a much lesser extent, Concept Map-based assessment for adult learners in a training context has also been investigated. The research base suggests that Concept Map-based assessment is a valid and reliable approach for assessing learning. This study builds on previous research by using Concept Maps to assess the learning of adult military service members in the context of training for deployment into hostile regions. Specifically, the training intervention concerned the topic of Improvised Explosive Devices. Concept Mapping was employed to identify knowledge differences between service members who had extensive experience with IEDs, and those who had little or none. Areas of assessment were developed from these knowledge differences. Concept Map-based assessment items—Multiple Choice Concept Maps—focused on the areas of assessment were developed and used to test for the training impact of a learning experience. The items were suggested to be sensitive to changes in knowledge.