Cognitive Frames of Reference and Strategic Thinking

摘要

Using Stratified Systems Theory and the research on expertise as a conceptualframework, this study explored the differences in the structure and content of the cognitive frames of reference that mid-level and strategic-level leaders used when engaged in strategic thinking. During a one hour interview, subjects (ten mid-level leaders, five regional experts, and five strategic-level leaders) thought aloud about the most significant strategic issues facing the U.S. military in the future and how the defense establishment should prepare to face the issues. A diagraming technique was used to depict the frames of reference from the interview transcripts, resulting in 189 diagrams. Frame-of-reference diagrams were analyzed for structure and content. The results revealed discernible differences in the frames of mid-level and strategic-level leaders. Compared to the frames of reference of mid-level leaders, strategic-level leaders' frames of reference were more interconnected, sophisticated, and action