Lecture F3 (2021-04-06): Chapter 10, Model Validity, Mental Models, and Learning (Morecroft, 2015)

In this lecture, we review topics brought up in Chapter 10 of Morecroft (2015), which focusses on building confidence in models. In particular, we review the definition of a model and the different types of models -- from analog to metaphorical -- and how the lack of realism in illustrative models can have a strength in being more generalizable. We discuss formal models as learning tools -- transitional objects that help someone move from one mental model to another. We also discuss how formal models help to build communities of knowledge among model builders. This discussion borrows both from Morecroft (2015) as well as work by cognitive psychologist Frank Keil and a few others. We close with a few comments about testing, verification, and validation (TV&V) and a more concrete example.