The course is a two-day intensive program on modelling information, focusing on structured processes of critical thinking and abstraction to extract core content from text, diagrams, and data, and structuring them systematically by availing of a suitable modelling language. Different scenarios, such as constructive topic exploration, theory representation, learning from textbooks, and database design use modelling languages of increasing complexity. These languages will be introduced and their respective suitability for various knowledge-intensive tasks will be thoroughly assessed over the two days. 

The course will guide you through:  

1. Overview of types of models and their role in structured critical thinking
2. Overview of the what and how of mind maps, domain specific models and diagrams, and of models and application profiles for database and information system design
3. Techniques for critical analysis and abstraction of raw information (text, data, diagrams) for effective modelling
4. Strengths and weaknesses of the three types of models introduced
5. Hands-on modelling practice

By the end of this course, participants will have:

1. Understanding of ways to model information and knowledge;
2. Improved ability to analyse diagrammatic domain models;
3. Basic ability to read and create conceptual models for database and information system design.
4. Enhanced capacity for critical thinking and abstract reasoning in complex information domains.

This  course combines theory with practical activities in critical analysis and modelling. Participants may bring their own "unanalysed" material to practice with, or use material provided.