Comparing Kit-Build and Figma-based Concept Mapping: Effects of Real-Time Feedback and Implications for Collaborative Problem Solving

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of the Kit-Build Concept Map (which provides real-time feedback) compared to Figma, a commonly used collaborative design tool, in the context of Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS). The experiment involved two groups of university students who collaboratively solved progressively complex case studies over four longitudinal sessions. The study addresses two research questions: (1) differences in concept map scores between the two groups and their correlation with summative scores and (2) lecturers’ perspectives on the benefits of Kit-Build in supporting learning. The results showed that the real-time feedback feature of Kit-Build contributed to consistent improvement in the experimental group’s performance, resulting in a strong correlation between the concept map scores and the summative scores compared to the control group. Lecturers viewed Kit-Build as a valuable tool for enhancing student learning through real-time feedback, structured guidance, and efficient concept map construction. They also suggested enhancements such as complexity estimation and more instructive feedback to further support assessments and student comprehension.