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Friendly amendment: a commentary on Doyle and Ford's proposed re‐definition of ‘mental model’
Author(s) -
Lane David C.
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
system dynamics review
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.491
H-Index - 57
eISSN - 1099-1727
pISSN - 0883-7066
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1099-1727(199922)15:2<185::aid-sdr166>3.0.co;2-c
Subject(s) - meaning (existential) , mental model , term (time) , accidental , distraction , computer science , system dynamics , cognition , dynamics (music) , cognitive science , psychology , artificial intelligence , cognitive psychology , psychotherapist , physics , quantum mechanics , neuroscience , acoustics , pedagogy
Some amendments are proposed to a recent redefinition of the ‘mental model’ concept in system dynamics. First, externalised, or articulated mental models should not be called ‘cognitive maps’; this term has a well established, alternative meaning. Second, there can be mental models of entities not yet existing beyond an individual's mind; the modelling of planned or desired systems is possible and recommended. Third, saying that mental models ‘maintain’ social systems connects with some exciting research opportunities for system dynamics; however, it is probably an accidental distraction from the intended meaning of the redefinition. These minor criticisms apart, the new definition of ‘mental model of a dynamic system’ is welcomed as a useful contribution to both research and practice. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.