8 | COSERE 1.2. Mental Models Mental Models are embedded assumptions, generalisations, or even images. These models shape our worldview and, in turn, impact our behaviour. Consequently, two people may witness the same event yet have vastly different perceptions because they have different mental models. In a sense, mental models are like eyeglasses, critically changing the way we see the world around us. Chris Argyris developed a “Ladder of Inference” to describe how people form and sustain mental models. According to Mr. Argyris, we all make assumptions in our daily lives. They are necessary. For example, when we buy a bottle of milk, we assume the milk is drinkable. This said, we must acknowledge that our assumptions could be wrong, especially when we make assumptions about the intentions or beliefs of others. Instruction (Ladder of Inference): Imagine a situation that you observe (for example, pupils in the classroom, colleagues in the staff room, a meeting with the school management, teamwork with teachers...). • What can you see? • What are you experiencing? • Try to describe this situation according to the image Ladder of Inference. What erroneous belief can you come to? How can a false belief affect an observation in a similar situation in the future?
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