Understanding Mental Models
by Diane Halpern, California State University
© 1998, Peregrine Publishers, Inc., All Rights Reserved

Introduction

If you have not already done so, please visit "Critical Thinking: I Know It's a Good Thing, But What Is It?". This brief tutorial will introduce you to the key concepts you'll be putting into action in this activity. Every day we react to the world around us in ways that reflect how we think something works. Often called our mental model, this personal view of how a system works affects how we interact with people and things around us. In this activity, you will be asked to think about your implicit models of 'how the world works' or your beliefs about events. Begin your exploration of your mental models by responding to the following questions:

Why are there 24 hours in a day?

How does soap work?

Is broccoli or a chocolate bar a healthier food?

Contents

Some Background
Water Level Demonstration
Water Level Summary
What Does it Mean?
Social Variables
Student Activities