Use of concept maps to analyze students' understanding of the I/O subsystem

Abstract

The Input/Output topic is mandatory in the Computer Architecture branch of the computing curricula. However, in our experience it is a rather complex topic for the students to understand. This paper presents the process followed to analyze the concept maps built by the students at the end of the "Computer Structure" subject, in the second semester of the degree course.The analysis process is explained because we had to adapt the software used in other disciplines to our needs. Merging all the concept maps showed that some relationships were missing, some were very messy and others were very strong. Based on the results achieved, some points need to be reinforced during the learning process.

Collaborative and Multilingual Approach to Learn Database Topics Using Concept Maps

“…Although they have not been extensively used, some experiences using concept maps in the computer engineering area have been conducted with different educational purposes. Concept mapping has been used as a tool to enhance learning in subjects such as (a) object-oriented programming [ 5 , 6 ], (b) introduction to computer science [ 7 ], (c) parallel computing [ 8 ], (d) distributed systems [ 9 ], and (e) the I/O subsystem [ 10 , 11 ].…”

Task-Adapted Concept Map Scaffolding to Support Quizzes in an Online Environment

“…Berges and Hubwieser [3] explore the semi-automated extraction of concept maps from textbooks to assist in Introductory Objectoriented Programming course; Sanders et al [4] explore the use of manually constructed concept maps within an Introductory Object-oriented Programming course; Calvo et al [5] adopt concept maps within an intermediate Database Principles courses to facilitate collaboration and understanding; and LarrazaMendiluze and Garay-Vitoria [6] explore an automatic comparison of manually generated concept maps within the area of Computer Architecture.…”