Mental ModelsHWDSB-Rotman Integrative Thinking Project
Prepared by: Heidi Siwak
Adapted from the Rotman School of Management
January 15 2014
Our reactions to Model Clash:
Fear and Avoid
Deny/ignore
Crush opposing model
Pretend there is no clash
Choose and move on
Go over options
Choose either or
Choose best worst option
Rotman I-Think
Summary: To understand our world we build models in
our heads. This happens whether we want it to or not. Models are useful; they help us make sense
of limitless information. We need to be aware of our models. Our models are always wrong. We are only ever working with our current
best model.
Activity 3
What is your mental model of a homeless person?
Whole or small group discussion.
Present models.
Homeless Person
1. http://shine.yahoo.com/work-money/dawn-loggins-homeless-abandoned-teen-heads-harvard-174300575.html
2. Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcQR21RGeVk
Activity 5: Journal Reflection
1. Think of a recent conflict you have had or seen where model clash occurred because people had different models.
2. Describe a time when you completely missed something that was obvious to others.
Drama
Divide class into small groups.
Assign each group a different way of handling model clash.
Create a skit illustrating the model clash reaction.
Writing
Write a short story where a person’s first impression limits how they understand another person or a situation.
Draw
Draw a map of Canada without looking at an atlas or map.
Label significant places on the map.
Compare your model of Canada with others.
Music
Describe the best form of music.
Create a list or mix of the top 5 songs today.
Compare your model of good music with a partner or small group.
Reflection:
What do you understand now about how people see the world around them that you didn’t know or realize before?
Digital Collage
1. Select a theme or topic.
2. Create a digital collage showing the many different models one could hold of that topic.
3. (example – hockey – some see it as a fabulous game; some dismiss it as all about fighting)
Debrief
It is important that students have time to reflect on what was learned in a non-evaluative way so that they feel comfortable sharing their insights.
Journal or Small Group Discussion
1. What did you learn?
2. What do you understand now about how people see the world that you didn’t realize before?
3. How might a model you hold be wrong or incomplete?
4. What model about the world or that someone else holds do you find difficult to understand?