Knowledge Visualization: An Effective Way of Improving Learning

Knowledge visualization is an emerging field of research which develops on the basis of scientific computing visualization, data visualization and information visualization. In this paper, the concept, formats, and theoretical basis of knowledge visualization are discussed; three kinds of it (concept maps, mind maps, and visual metaphors) and ways of applying them to improve learning effect are commentated. First, two kinds of classification of knowledge visualization are introduced. One distinguished knowledge visualization into six main groups; the other distinguished it into five forms. Then principle of knowledge visualization is analyzed. At last, examples that the three forms of knowledge visualization applied in learning are given, which related to learning effects and reasons of improving learning.