Note on cognitive mapping in the teaching of management

Novak and Gowin's cognitive mapping and Vee diagrams were introduced as a way of representing knowledge in two academic course settings -- accounting and business strategy. The students produced two sets of maps and diagrams, one at the start of each course and one after completing them. The accounting course aimed at helping the students to elaborate and expand their knowledge structure, i.e. to assimilate the material delivered. The purpose of the business strategy course was to impose a specific type of knowledge structure on the students. Changes were more evident in the accounting case. The difference is discussed in light of Novak and Gowin's distinction between education and rote learning. Suggestions for the further development and use of cognitive mapping in teaching are provided.