Concept Mapping as a Communications Tool in Systems Engineering

摘要

In any "deep learning" situation, and in communicating in particular, understanding will be enhanced by using techniques that more closely fit the nonlinear structure of our thinking processes. This idea is particularly relevant to systems engineering, which deals with so many interrelated concepts-concepts whose parts are often handled by separate organizations with different "languages" and foci, presenting additional barriers and confusions in understanding. In the figures in this paper, we have tried to show a variety of patterns that concept mapping can be cast in, for flexibility and interest. Our experience in Boeing is that such an approach simplifies, deepens, and clarifies communications, while providing the opportunity to find ways to develop more complete and better integrated concepts.