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 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 traditional way of teaching.
Key words: Concept maps, force and motion, science and technology, academic achievement and retention.
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