Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
International Journal of Contemporary Educational Research, cilt.7, sa.2, ss.187-201, 2020 (Hakemli Dergi)
By carrying out software-aided mind/argument mapping applications in the “Theories of Learning and
Teaching” course offered to post-graduate students completing a master's degree in education, the present
research aimed to examine the effects of the applications on academic achievement, as well as explore students'
opinions on these applications. The research followed a mixed-method design integrating quantitative and
qualitative research methods. Participants consisted of post-graduate students (six students) who were taking the
course titled “Theories of Learning and Teaching”. The experimental process lasted for 12 weeks. The
experimental part of the research has been realized in two stages: In the first stage, the students were given the
opportunity to learn about and practice preparing software-aided mind and argument mapping applications on
computers and tablets for two weeks. In the second stage, participants were instructed about the theoretical
dimension of teaching and learning processes and of the software-aided mind and argument mapping. Theories
of Learning and Teaching Course Achievement Test, Reflective Diaries, Student Self-Assessment Forms and
Semi-Structured Interview Schedules were utilized as data collection tools. The results suggested that the use of
software-aided maps in learning and teaching processes has a considerably positive effect on students’ academic
achievement. Besides, it has been observed that the students acquired various skills with regards to the use of
such tools.