Group reflective on mental models Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Group reflective on mental models - Essay Example The major thesis or argument of the article is based on the Senge’s discussion about mental models. This is a type of reflective essay. The study will evaluate the arguments of the author. Moreover, the study will reflect on the group’s presentation. Reason behind writing the Chapter According to Peter Senge, mental models are intensely ingrained generalizations, assumptions or even pictures of the images that influence the understanding and thought process of the individuals. Organizations generally have several kinds of mental models. In case of non-profit organizations, mental models are generally developed around the role of an organization, people served within an organization and several activities performed by an organization. Peter Senge became familiar with several disciplines of group dynamics and organization theory in graduate school. It is true that several individuals within the organizations have different level of perceptions about the organization. Pete r Senge wrote this chapter to make people understand about unique perception level in the minds of the individuals. Unique perception profoundly influences the lives of people on a specific individual level. According to Peter Senge, mental models generally offer a flawed but useful representation of reality like several architectural models or computer models. The author wrote this chapter in order to educate the people about different aspects of mental models in a business environment. Purpose of the Chapter Major purpose of this chapter is to determine the characteristics and effects of the mental models. Mental model is a type of filter that helps to pass the refined data and information. Generally mental models are restrained and powerful. These are restrained because the individuals are not aware of the effects of these mental models. On the other hand, these mental models are powerful because these help to determine to what the individuals should pay attention. The mental mod els are quite conservative in nature. These models are left unchallenged. These guide us to see a broader picture from the achieved and filtered data and information. However, the characteristics and effects of these mental models are discussed in the evaluation part. It is clear from the detailed readings of the chapter that the author has effectively drawn the conclusion. Therefore, it can be stated that Peter Senge significantly tried to meet his purpose. However, the chapter is lacking some practical and real time examples. It is true that an individual will find it difficult to gather real time and practical examples as the subject highly depends upon imaginary and perception process of an individual. It would be effective for him if he could gather more real time examples regarding group dynamics and organization theory. It would help him to develop an effective insight of study. Argument of Author There are several mental models. The discipline of this mental model starts wit h the turning of inward mirrors. These models help an individual to learn internal pictures of the real world in order to bring them to the practical surface. These mental models also include the significant ability to carry on effective and meaningful conversations in order to maintain an effective balance between advocacy and