Table 1. Differences between mental models and schemata.
| |
| |
|
Author |
Basis of
Differentiation |
Schemata |
Mental Models |
| |
|
Rutherford and Wilson (2004:312) |
Static vs. dynamic structure |
“...A procedural data structure in
memory”. |
Use procedural data “in a computationally dynamic
manner”. |
|
Holland et al. (1986:13) |
Representational flexibility |
Inflexible knowledge structures stored in long-term
memory provide “predictive knowledge for highly regular and routine
situations”. |
Flexible knowledge structure that combines multiple
schemata to represent or simulate an unfamiliar situation. |
|
Brewer (1987:189) |
Generic vs. specific knowledge |
“...Precompiled generic knowledge
structures.” |
“Specific knowledge structures that are
constructed to represent a new situation through the use of generic knowledge of
space, time, causality, and human intentionality”. |
|
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|