mental-model-mapper

Map mental models to visible evidence with structured system_focus and context inputs.

583|96|Updated Mar 1, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/GarethManning/education-agent-skills --skill mental-model-mapper
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: mental-model-mapper
Source: https://github.com/GarethManning/education-agent-skills/tree/main/skills/systems-thinking/mental-model-mapper
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/GarethManning/education-agent-skills --skill mental-model-mapper

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps educators and facilitators uncover the beliefs, assumptions, stories, and values that shape how a system behaves, so you can reflect or redesign without blaming individuals.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Mental model mapping: Identify current and alternative mental models as hypotheses tied to visible evidence.
  • Evidence-to-structure linking: Connect each model to structures, patterns, routines, and decisions it sustains.
  • Safer, compassionate facilitation: Use protective-function thinking and safer language to reduce accusation and defensiveness.
  • Reflection and redesign prompts: Produce dialogue questions and actionable alternative-model practices for students or staff.

Quick Start

Use the mental-model-mapper skill to map what a school system may be “acting as if” in by providing system_focus, context, and visible_evidence as inputs.

Frequently Asked Questions about mental-model-mapper

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I uncover hidden assumptions shaping a system without blaming individuals?

Mental model mapping surfaces the beliefs, stories, and values driving system behavior by linking them to visible evidence. It uses protective-function thinking and safer language to reduce defensiveness during reflection or redesign.

What is systems thinking reflection and when do I need it for curriculum design?

Systems thinking reflection identifies what a curriculum system acts as if it believes by mapping mental models to evidence. It is needed when redesigning educational structures to address hidden assumptions without accusing staff.

How do I facilitate dialogue to repair conflict using evidence-based inquiry?

Facilitate conflict repair by mapping stakeholder mental models as hypotheses tied to visible evidence. This produces dialogue questions and safer language guidance to reduce accusation and encourage compassionate system redesign.

Can I use mental model mapping for culture and placement-based inquiry?

Mental model mapping applies to culture and placement-based inquiry by connecting observed evidence to the assumptions sustaining those patterns. It outputs reflection questions and alternative-model practices for staff or students.

What inputs do I need to map mental models to visible evidence?

You need structured inputs for system focus and context, while visible evidence and stakeholders are optional. The output includes a mental model map, evidence-linked structures, reflection questions, and safer language guidance.

Why does my system redesign fail to change staff behavior despite new policies?

Redesigns often fail because hidden mental models and assumptions still sustain old routines. Mapping these beliefs to visible evidence reveals the underlying structures preventing change, allowing for targeted alternative-model practices.