The concept of mental models has become an important ingredient in models of the cognitive control of human behaviour. The paper reviews different approaches to the definition of mental models taken in psychology and cognitive sciences, which typically have been considering selected aspects of human activities. The need for analysis of complex work scenarios is discussed, together with the necessity of considering several levels of cognitive control depending upon different kinds of internal representations. The development of mental representations during learning and adaptation to the requirements of a task is discussed. Finally, the role of means-end considerations in problem solving and in understanding of the functioning of purposive mechanisms is illustrated.
Number of pages | 34 |
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ISBN (Print) | 87-550-1336-8 |
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Publication status | Published - 1987 |
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Series | Risø-M |
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Number | 2656 |
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ISSN | 0418-6435 |
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