Mental Mapping

Mental Mapping is described by the Pathways Mapping Initiative (PMI) as "a vehicle for moving beyond the piecemeal presentation of evidence from diverse bodies of literature and for ensuring the unbiased synthesis of findings that can inform broader discussions of effective strategies." The goal of the process is not only to elicit useful information but also to make it easier for policy and programme people to think about their work more rationally and coherently.

To do the mental mapping, the PMI convenes groups of highly knowledgeable, experienced individuals, including researchers and practitioners, who are steeped in their respective fields and diverse in their perspectives and beliefs. Drawing on their accumulated wisdom, PMI asks them to make explicit their "mental maps" of what works to reach the outcome under consideration. Participants are asked to respond initially to the question, "Considering the evidence from the research, theory, and experiences you have been exposed to over the years, what could a community most effectively do if it were committed to achieving the specific outcome under consideration (e.g., higher rates of school readiness or family economic success)?"

As they respond, PMI encourages participants to dig deep and put on the table issues that might otherwise remain hidden. They want this Mental Mapping to stimulate action in areas that are typically neglected; they want to highlight the importance of filling gaps among interventions, services, and supports and forging connections between them.

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