A computer-based research tool for rapid knowledge-creation: A retro-viral agent of change

Abstract

There is growing interest in the application of computer-based tools to support higher level thinking and meta-cognitive processes to enable organisations and individuals to respond to accelerating social and technological change with practical and viable solutions. The educational community faces increasing pressure to produce research that addresses the 'gap' between theory and practice. A new computer-based tool has been developed that is being used in research to investigate phenomena and rapidly develop immediately actionable research findings. The tool scaffolds complex thinking, sense making and decision making processes, makes competing mental models explicit and supports the resolution of conflicts through a graphical user interface that enhances human-human interaction or dialogue.