Case Based Concept Map Topology Counselor

In the process of constructing a concept map, a common problem is how to achieve a correct topological distribution of the concepts created. The project described in this paper uses Case Based Reasoning techniques to develop a Concept Map Topology Counselor that suggests improvements to a concept map based on its layout. The case base is constructed using examples of concept maps that present topological problems such as a tree structure (no cross-links), concepts with too many outgoing links, "String", and unbalanced concept maps. Each case has a corresponding solution in the case base, consisting of the same concept map with concepts and linking phrases either added or removed. A modified graph isomorphism algorithm is used to compare a concept map with the ones present in the case base. If a match is found, the solutions are shown to the user who can then decide whether or not to incorporate the changes. In this paper we describe the implementation of a prototype as well as the results of preliminary evaluation of the Counselor.