Volume 4, Number 3 (July - September 2009)
Paradigms, Mental Models, and Mindsets: Triple Barriers to Transformational Change in School Systems
Anyone with an interest in creating substantial, frame-breaking change in America’s school systems is probably familiar with the terms “paradigm,” “mental models,” and “mindsets.” But what exactly do those terms mean? Are they distinct phenomena? Are they interchangeable synonyms? How powerful are they? And, importantly, if they are triple barriers to transformational change, how can change leaders influence these phenomena to create a paradigm shift? This article offers some insights to the meaning of these terms and why knowing how to work with them is so important for any effort to create transformational change in school systems. AVAILABLE AT: http://cnx.org/content/col10723/latest/