The Effects of Using Concept Maps on Achievement and Retention in Teaching Science Lessons

Abstract

Different teaching methods are used in order to ensure meaningful learning. One of these methods
is concept maps which provide visualization of knowledge. In this study, effects of using concept maps in 7th
grade Science and Technology lessons on students’ academic achievement and retention were investigated. In
the study, an experimental design of pretest-posttest with a control group was used. Participants of the research
were 73 7th grade students at Osmaniye Merkez Atatürk Elementary School during 2010-2011 academic-year. 36
students who participated in the study formed the experimental group and 37 formed the control group.
According to the results of the statistically analyzed research data, teaching with concept maps increases student
achievement and retention more than the teaching without concept maps