Eliciting Group Knowledge for Model-Building

Abstract

System dynamics models are typically created using multiple streams of information including quantitative data, written records, and information contained in mental models of both individuals and groups. While qualitative sources of information are widely recognized as important in all stages of the model building process, little systematic research has been completed how best to elicit and map this knowledge. In this paper, we survey the existing literature on mapping and eliciting knowledge for system dynamics modeling and also explore this literature in the broader fields of cognitive psychology and small group processes. Special attention is paid to new software advances to support these processes.