| Discovery Logic
MacroCognition is designed to help people make discoveries that result in a turnaround in their actions. Drawing on the latest research and theories, we have developed a discovery method to guide our approach.
Project Selection
We work on projects where people are showing poor, unacceptable performance, and where the evidence suggests that the failures stem from confusion and flawed mental models. We also help people who are good become experts.
Diagnosis
We start by discovering how a person's mental models are inadequate, seriously flawed, or less than ideal. We typically use Cognitive Task Analysis methods to find out the basis for their limitations. We also tap previous research that might have a bearing on the problem.
Design
Once we have identified the cognitive barriers for a specific problem, we design interventions to help the people discover how to conceptualize and take better control of the situation.
- In some cases, we develop scenarios so people can practice seeing things differently.
- In some cases, we design scenarios that produce a “cognitive collision,” to show people the limitations of their current way of thinking. As long as people believe in their existing mental models, they have trouble considering better ones. When we challenge their defective mental model, they become receptive to new ideas. Disillusion has to precede discovery.
Implementation – Cognitive Transformation
The goal of the discovery approach is to transform the way people think and act. The interventions may rely on 1:1 training or group training. We also use web-based exercises and games to help people make their own discoveries. Recently, we have been using a ShadowBox training method to foster discoveries. For an example of Multinational Training Material designed to help people explore and manage the challenges multinational organizations click here.
Verification
The cognitive restructuring should result in more accurate mental models. More importantly, it has to lead to successful performance.
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