A technique for automatically scoring open-ended concept maps

In this descriptive investigation, we seek to confirm and extend a technique for automatically scoring concept maps. Sixty unscored concept maps from a published dissertation were scored using a computer-based technique adapted from Schvaneveldt (1990) and colleague's Pathfinder network approach. The scores were based on link lines drawn between terms and on the geometric distances between terms. These concept map scores were compared to terminology and comprehension posttest scores. Concept map scores derived from link data were more related to terminology whereas concept map scores derived from distance data were more related to comprehension. A step-by-step description of the scoring technique is presented and the next steps in the development process are discussed.