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"ACM SIGCHI WWW Human Factors (Open Discussion)" <[log in to unmask]>
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Boniface Lau <[log in to unmask]>
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Sun, 13 Jun 1999 23:50:25 -0400
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Boniface Lau <[log in to unmask]>
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Earlier, I wrote:
>> * A model is a representation of something. <<
>> * A mental model is a model in people's mind. <<

Stefan Berreth replied:
>> These two comments reveal you misconception: A model is not a
representation! <<

If a model is not a representation, then please answer the following
question:

"What makes a model a model, and not merely a structure, drawing, or
whatever form/contents that the model happens to have?"

If you have difficulty answering the above question without having to agree
with my definition, don't be surprised. If you consult an English
dictionary, you will find out that a model is indeed a representation.


>> Again, you'll get on the right track if you understand the difference
between a representation of a model and the model itself in people's minds.
<<

I do understand the difference.

My difficulty, however, is in trying to ensure a fruitful dialog with
someone like you who argues against common sense definitions found in
dictionaries, not to mention the vast and long established discipline of
modeling.


Boniface Lau

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