A concept map (also known as a mind map) is used to present complex information. There are a variety of styles that can be used. Concept mapping can:

• Generate ideas;

• Design complex structures;

• Communicate complex ideas;

• Assess understanding or identify misunderstanding;

• Integrate new and old knowledge; and

• portray visually ideas and relationships that would otherwise be difficult to verbalize.

Concept mapping is a valuable skill that can be transferred to other courses and subjects. In this course, the concept map will be used to examine leadership. Your assignment is to develop a concept map based on the necessary traits, abilities and skills of an effective leader. All the material discussed in the course and your own personal insights and ideas should be incorporated into your map. The map can be created by hand and scanned or created digitally. The map should be submitted as a PDF. Some students find it helpful to start their map early in the course and continually add to it after each module. Consult the library's Learning Commons website for more ideas on Concept Mapping. In addition CMAP has free software that can be downloaded to create concept maps. Sample of concept maps are available in Supplementary Materials, which can be accessed through the Table of Contents panel.