This course is designed to introduce CPAs to the concept of mental models and how they can be used to sharpen critical thinking and improve ethical, problem-solving and decision-making skills in the accounting profession. Participants will learn about a variety of mental models, including the Map is Not the Territory, First Principles, and the 80/20 Rule, and how to apply them to financial situations. The course will also cover the importance of building a "latticework" of mental models and the limitations of mental models.

Topic Covered:

  • Introduction to mental models
  • Examples of mental models and their applications in behavioral ethics
  • Building a latticework of mental models
  • Limitations of mental models
  • How to apply mental models to the accounting profession
  • Case studies demonstrating the use of mental models in financial decision-making
  • Strategies for continuing to learn and expand your mental model toolkit

Who should attend:
This course is intended for CPAs and other accounting professionals who want to sharpen their critical thinking and improve their ethical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Learning Objectives
  • Discover and distinguish between mental models and explain their importance in decision-making.
  • Identify and describe a variety of mental models.
  • Explore and apply mental models to financial situations.
  • Recognize the importance of building a latticework of mental models.
  • Recognize the limitations of mental models and seek out additional information as needed.
  • Identify and analyze case studies demonstrating the use of mental models in financial decision-making.
  • Discover and develop strategies for continuing to learn and expand your mental model toolkit.
Last updated/reviewed: March 10, 2024
4 Reviews (7 ratings)

Reviews

5
Anonymous Author
This course teaches you to how to think about thinking. Excellent how the presenter (who is excellent) explained the concepts using not just general but accountant specific problems.

4
Anonymous Author
I have learned for the past 2 days how can decision making process be made and how to reach into best conclusion. Nothing is made from air, anything must come from order

5
Anonymous Author
I really enjoyed the course and the instructor and I look forward to exploring other courses he has created.

5
Anonymous Author
It was filled with very interesting and informative mental models and how to utilize them in the work.

Prerequisites
Course Complexity: Intermediate
Basic knowledge of accounting principles and practices is recommended but not required for this course.
Education Provider Information
Company: Illumeo, Inc., 75 East Santa Clara St., Suite 1215, San Jose, CA 95113
Contact: For more information regarding this course, including complaint and cancellation policies, please contact our offices at (408) 400- 3993 or send an e-mail to .
Instructor for this course
Course Syllabus
INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW
  Introduction to Mental Models for Accountants: How to Use Cognitive Frameworks4:10
  What are Mental Models?14:48
  Prominent Mental Model Thinkers - Part 133:14
  Prominent Mental Model Thinkers - Part 233:32
  Domain Mental Models16:20
  Key Takeaways3:58
CONTINUOUS PLAY
  Mental Models for Accountants: How to Use Cognitive Frameworks1:46:02
SUPPORTING MATERIALS
  Slides: Mental Models for Accountants: How to Use Cognitive FrameworksPDF
  Mental Models for Accountants: How to Use Cognitive Frameworks GlossaryPDF
REVIEW AND TEST
  REVIEW QUESTIONSquiz
 FINAL EXAMexam