James K. Doyle

Mental Models Concepts for System Dynamics Research

Although “mental models” are of central importance to system dynamics research and practice, the field has yet to develop an unambiguous and agreed upon definition of them. To begin to address this problem, existing definitions and descriptions of mental models in system dynamics and several literatures related to cognitive science were reviewed and compared. Available definitions were found to be overly brief, general, and vague, and different authors were found to markedly disagree on the basic characteristics of mental models. Based on this review, we concluded that in order to reduce the amount of confusion in the literature, the mental models concept should be “unbundled” and the term “mental models” should be used more narrowly. To initiate a dialogue through which the system dynamics community might achieve a shared understanding of mental models, we propose a new definition of “mental models of dynamic systems” accompanied by an extended annotation that explains the definitional choices made and suggests terms for other cognitive structures left undefined by narrowing the mental model concept. Suggestions for future research that could improve the fields ability to further define mental models are discussed.

Mental models concepts revisited: some clarifications and a reply to Lane

This article revisits a conceptual definition of “mental models of dynamic systems” proposed for use in system dynamics research by Doyle and Ford and commented on by Lane. Lanes proposed amendments to the definition are discussed in turn, with particular attention to the history and appropriate use of the term “cognitive map.” A revised definition informed by Lanes commentary is offered. Copyright

The cognitive psychology of systems thinking

This article describes how established research methods in cognitive psychology can be applied to answer questions about the ability of systems thinking interventions to improve the nature and quality of thought about complex systems. The need for and advantages of controlled experimental research on the effects of interventions on mental models and cognitive processes, as well as the limitations of current assessment practices, are discussed. An agenda for collaborative research between cognitive psychologists and researchers interested in dynamic systems, covering the areas of memory, analogical transfer, mental models, decision processes, human–computer interaction, and expertise, is outlined in detail. The article concludes with a discussion of the difficulties and long-term advantages of conducting the described research.

Can Contingent Valuation Measure Nonuse Values

The authors outline how potentially coherent, consistent economic values can be determined by use of contingent valuation measurement (CVM). They use as an example three different CV studies to estimate nonuse values for groundwater. The authors also point out that rapidly changing political preferences can complicate the issues. They feel that the appropriate goal for CVM is to attempt to provide crystallized values for public decisionmaking.

Face-to-Face Surveys

In a face-to-face survey, an interviewer is physically present to ask the survey questions and to assist the respondent in answering them. This survey delivery mode can offer many advantages over mail and telephone surveys in terms of the complexity and quality of the data collected. However, because these advantages come with significantly increased logistical costs as well as additional potential sources of response bias, face-to-face surveys are typically conducted only when there are compelling reasons to opt out of other survey delivery modes. Keywords: personal interview; interviewer bias; interviewer effects; data quality; response bias

The Design of Educational Programs in System Dynamics at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI)

Educational programs leading to degrees in system dynamics are rare and thus of critical importance to the future of the field of system dynamics. However, to a large extent such programs have not yet been made transparent to the system dynamics community as a whole. The present article describes the design and rationale for undergraduate and graduate programs at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). The goal of the article is to invite feedback from the system dynamics community about our specific programs as well as to facilitate wider discussion about the appropriate content, design, and pedagogy of degree programs and courses in system dynamics.

The Design of Educational Programs in System Dynamics at WPI

Educational programs leading to degrees in system dynamics are rare and thus of critical importance to the future of the field of system dynamics. However, to a large extent such programs have not yet been made transparent to the system dynamics community as a whole. The present article describes the design and rationale for undergraduate and graduate programs at WPI. The goal of the article is to invite feedback from the system dynamics community about our specific programs as well as to facilitate wider discussion about the appropriate content, design, and pedagogy of degree programs and courses in system dynamics.