Modernizing Our Cognitive Model
Abstract
Although still popular, the Observe-Orient-Decide-Act (OODA) Loop is outdated as a model of human cognition. Based on advances in the cognitive sciences since the 1950s, the Critique- Explore-Compare-Adapt (CECA) Loop is proposed as a better descriptive model. The model puts two mental representations, the conceptual model established through operational planning, and the situation model, which represents the state of the battlespace, at the center of the decision making process. The four phases of the CECA Loop broadly correspond to the identification of information needs (Critique), active and passive data collection and situation updating (Explore), comparison of the current situation to the conceptual model (Compare), and adaptation to aspects of the battlespace that invalidate the conceptual model or block the path to goal completion (Adapt). The CECA Loop is intended to serve as a simple but widely applicable framework in which to study decision making in the context of Command and Control (C2). Some advantages of the CECA Loop over the OODA Loop are greater insight into the nature of perception and understanding, introduction of critical thinking elements, and exposition of the central role of planning and the mental representation of operational concepts in C2.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA465834
Entities
People
- David J. Bryant
Organizations
- Defence Research and Development Canada