Cognitive Maps

Cognitive Maps

Cognitive maps are the umbrella term for all visual representations of mental models. All mapping techniques described in this article are instances of cognitive maps. Cognitive maps have no visual rules that they need to obey: there is no restriction on how the concepts and the relationships between them are visually represented.

Characteristics 

• Diverse in nature and purpose. Cognitive mapping is used in a broad range of disciplines for a variety of purposes. Cognitive maps are the most general type of mental-model visualization. 
• No restrictions on structure or form. Cognitive maps do not have to adhere to a specific format. Thus, they are often abstract and have no consistent hierarchy. They are flexible and can accommodate a wide set of concepts or situations that need to be represented. 

Conclusion

However, there are diverse benefits from visualizing a concept, idea, or process, whether it be through a cognitive map, mind map, or concept map, and both individually or amongst a team: 

• Provides a tangible visual abstract thoughts 
• Communicates relationships or patterns between concepts  
• Deepens our knowledge and understanding of a specific topic or concept 
• Helps us integrate new ideas with existing systems
• Synthesizes a complex ecosystem into a single visualization that can be shared

Cognitive maps, mind maps, and concept maps ultimately enhance our cognitive understanding. Using one technique over another will not make or break a project. Ideally, a combination of all three will be used as needed at different points in your process, depending on your needs.