Modeling Actors in a Resource Dilemma: A Computerized Social Learning Environment

kis is a computerized knowledge-based model of how people act and interact in eco­ logical-social conflicts. The acronym stands for knowledge and intentions in social dilemmas. The model is embedded into a computerized version of such a conflict. It reflects the interplay between motives and knowledge for the generation of actions. Ecological and social knowledge are modeled. Action knowledge is represented in form of action schemata. Intention formation and realization are simulated as central processes of motivated action. Action knowledge is seen to be built up from learning by doing, mental simulation and observing others. The curricular function of the model is twofold. It sets up a framework to formulate learning goals in the domain of ecological-social dilemmas and to develop instructional measures to achieve them. The second aspect addresses a rather unusual function of cognitive modeling. So­ ciallearning is supported by equipping computerized learning environments of the microworld type with artificial actors. They are run by the model and behave according to instructional de­ mands. The kis model has been developed on the basis of previous empirical studies and it is fully implemented. But systematic tests of its validity and instructional practicability have not been carried out yet.