Mental models

Mental models are representations of the function and/or structure of objects in peoples' minds.

• may be incorrect or incomplete
• can be "executed"
• are analogical representations, or a combination of analogical and propositional representations
• are dynamically constructed when required

Two main types:

• Functional models (good for everyday use)
• Structural models (good for breakdown situations; difficult to acquire from usage experience only)

Computer systems should be designed in such a way that users can quickly acquire a good functional model of the system (that is also in accordance with their task model).