How do high-school students perceive the concept of "map‟: A case study from Istanbul

Adem ÖZDER

Abstract

The main aim of this study is investigating metaphors developed by the students regarding the concept of „map‟ at private institutions which provide them with specialized courses (Dershane). About 338 students in one of these private courses in Istanbul city center accepted to participate in the research within 2012 to 2013 academic year. The research data were obtained from the following statement of students: “Map is like ......., because........” Content Analysis Technique of Qualitative Research Method was used to analyze and interpret the collected data. According to outcome of the research, private courses to students produced 49 different and acceptable metaphors in relation with the concept of map. These metaphors were categorized under 10 different conceptual categories after being studied carefully based on their common features. The research findings revealed that most of the students perceive the maps as a piece of paper showing countries, directions, places, landforms, provinces, and regions while some of them put and important emphasis on how maps made and transferred to the 2D papers. However, some of the students‟ perspective indicated that they perceive the maps as helpful educational tool.