MGMT 1000 Lecture Notes - Peter Senge, Mental Model, Mental Models

• School: York University
• Department: Management
• Course: MGMT 1000
• Professor: Jean Adams

Document Summary

Mental models: frames that shape understanding and action. Mental models are frames that we carry in our heads; prevent us from taking action. Senge wants us to be aware of problems and overcome negative influence; can be generalizations or complex theories/belief systems. Mental models shape our perceptions, what we value, what we attend to and how we interact; get built into fabric of social life through various social norms. Example: if we think someone is untrustworthy, we act differently from the way we would if we believed otherwise. Mental models can create inappropriate/outdated frames for understanding situations and shaping what we are trying to do. They provide basis for conflict and confusion; people may be understanding same situation in different ways: challenge mental models through: dialogue about nature and appropriateness surfacing mental models and promoting productive inquiry and. Organizations can build capacity for challenging mental models into core practices.