#📓 #🎥 #🔴 # ORGL 615 Discussion Board Primer ![[calendar-plus.svg]] <small>Nov 06, 2022</small> | ![[calendar-clock.svg]] <small>Nov 11, 2022</small> 🏷️ [[Communication]], [[Learning]], [[Leadership MOC|Leadership]] **Speaker:** Dennis Conners **Citation:** Conners, D. (n.d.). _ORGL 615 discussion board primer_ [Video]. Gonzaga University. [https://cdnapisec.kaltura.com/index.php/extwidget/preview/partner_id/1153021/uiconf_id/33600172/entry_id/0_tg8hjhgn/embed/dynamic](https://cdnapisec.kaltura.com/index.php/extwidget/preview/partner_id/1153021/uiconf_id/33600172/entry_id/0_tg8hjhgn/embed/dynamic) --- # Abstract ~ 3 Sentence Summary A primer where Dr. Conners shares some practical ways to work with mental models in conversations with others. Objectives of the primer include learning how to communicate more effectively in discussions, developing skills for analyzing problems and identifying higher-leverage solutions, and enhancing skills for productive conversations about complex issues.l ## Key Takeaways - Slow down to be aware of your own [[mental models]] and inquire about those of others. - Use [[Ladder of Inference]] and a [[Balancing advocacy and inquiry]] to understand and challenge your own mental models and those of others. - Important to lay out our reasoning and encourage others to challenge it. # Notes & Important Ideas ### Awareness of mental models Awareness of [[mental models]] and the practice of [[skillful discussion]] allows us to explore [[systems thinking]] more. - Important to develop skills of [[reflection]] and [[inquiry]] ### Characteristics of mental models Mental models limit data and facts we take into account. What we observe affects the quality of our thoughts and ideas about the causes that are generating patterns of interest to us. > [! quote] Dennis Conners > When we recognize the filter our beliefs create, we have the ability to change what we see. - They are critical to our effectiveness - they influence our actions and impact our effectiveness - They filter what we see and hear - like mental sunglasses - We often treat our mental models as the "truth," when in fact they are just our perceptions of reality - They are flawed and can get us in trouble - It's easier to see other's mental models and harder to see our own Mental models are part of [[reinforcing loop|reinforcing structures]] that are self-perpetuating. - Mental models lead to certain ways of behaving that produce results which reinforce the beliefs. ### Tools for working with mental models Two tools to uncover, test, and change your mental models and those of others. 1. [[Ladder of Inference]] Intentional use of the Ladder of Inference when we are in disagreement with others can help us understand the source of the differences. 2. [[Balancing advocacy and inquiry]] A skillful discussion is a mix of advocacy and inquiry. ## Connections to Other Materials Most of this guidance was pulled from [[The Fifth Discipline - Senge 1994]]. # Personal Reflection & Application Because our mental models are largely unconscious, it does not feel natural to work with them to understand ourselves and others better. It takes quite a bit of effort and intentional commitment to using tools like the Ladder of Inference and balancing advocacy and inquiry. While I remembered to use the tools in discussion boards throughout the ORGL program, I rarely think to use them in real-life conversations. I think part of that is about the environment and expectations that are set. When I am in a leadership position or a position of influence, I would like to start every group discussion with a reminder of these principles and tools.