Arena:  Applied Critical Thinking

Conversation Mapping to Develop Core Concepts

Lab Content

Introduction

Presentation and Activity 1

Synthesis

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Introduction

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Conversation Mapping is a way to make a rich picture of something complex. A conversation map can be used to do a core concept expansion with a group of people. The process quickly builds appreciation for the complexity of words and accelerates knowledge sharing. The anonymity of the process protects candor. We can change our minds quietly without anyone knowing. It supports Intellectual Humility.

This technique was developed in the 1970s by Australian researcher Bruce McKenzie in Papua New Guinea.