IN SEARCH OF A MENTAL-MODEL-LIKE CONCEPT FOR GROUP LEVEL MODELING

In system dynamics, we care about mental model, because it is what we attempt to describe, understand, and improve using computer simulation models. But if we are developing our simulation models from a group of individuals, can we still call what we are trying to study a mental model? The main difference between individual and group level phenomenon is that in a group setting, interaction and communication among individuals shape what is represented in the maps and models. This paper attempts to clarify the object of our group level modeling by surveying existing literature looking for concepts similar to “mental model ” at the group level. The survey leads to an insight that what we attempt to represent with our maps and models vary widely by our selection of modeling methods, and how we define our object will draw a different set of theoretical literature. Key word