Visualization and model formulation: an analysis of the sketches of expert modellers

We report on an exploratory study of the use of sketches by experts engaged in the formulation of operational research models. We outline a methodology to identify sketches, link them to text in an associated verbal protocol, classify them, and relate their use to the modelling process. We found tha...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Journal of the Operational Research Society 2008-03, Vol.59 (3), p.353-361
Main Authors: Waisel, L B, Wallace, W A, Willemain, T R
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Applied sciences
Art sketches
Behavior modeling
Business and Management
Cognitive models
Creativity
Exact sciences and technology
General aspects
Linear programming
Management
Mathematical models
Mathematical visualization
Modeling
Occupational training. Personnel. Work management
Operational research. Management science
Operations research
Operations Research/Decision Theory
OR education
OR practice
Problem solving
Proportions
Studies
Teaching models
Theoretical Paper
Visualization
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Summary:We report on an exploratory study of the use of sketches by experts engaged in the formulation of operational research models. We outline a methodology to identify sketches, link them to text in an associated verbal protocol, classify them, and relate their use to the modelling process. We found that use of sketches is part of the personal modelling style of experts, that sketches are used more when the focus is on model structure or realization than on model context or assessment, that sentential sketches tend to be started sooner than diagrammatic sketches, and that sketching generally begins earlier on more difficult problems. We expect that such descriptive studies of expert behaviour will be useful in developing a science of modelling and in teaching novice modellers.
ISSN:0160-5682
1476-9360
DOI:10.1057/palgrave.jors.2602331