Decolonization, Agent-Based Modeling, and Restructuration

• In Event: Restructuring Concepts and Tools Through a Complexity Perspective

Abstract

Objective
We illustrate how agent-based modeling of emergent phenomena can be re-imagined through the lens of decolonization by partnering with Indigenous Mayan women weavers and the Ixkoj Ajkem Council in Xenacoj, Guatemala.

Theoretical Framework
Research on complex systems emphasizes the importance of understanding emergent phenomena through building progressively complex relationships among individuals and between individuals and their environments (Dickes,et.al.,2016; Wilensky&Resnick,1999). However, modeling complex systems from embodied and agent-based perspectives can also be synergistic with Indigenous ways and forms of knowing (Bang.et.al.,2018). Furthermore, scholars have also argued for a more interdisciplinary approach for science education, emphasizing cultural historical forms of knowing from Indigenous perspectives (Aikenhead&Mitchel, 2011).

The Learning Environment: Grafemos
Through our ongoing partnership, we have been designing Grafemos, a modeling environment for learning about emergence. Working with Grafemos involves modeling the target phenomenon (or a story) by first selecting six individual elements (“agents”) whose interactions result in the phenomenon. Participants then assign an image (based on combinations of traditional Mayan motifs used in weaving practices) to provide meaning to each element, and then create different combinations of the elements to model interactions between the agents. The Grafemos modeling device is a physical “computer” in the shape of a dodecahedron, with slots for images that are soaked in ink and then imprinted on paper as the device is rolled. Modeling with Grafemos is also a communal activity, where 4-6 people - elders and children - participate together, and each participant also models from the perspective of a specific element in the system.

Methodological Métissage
Methodologically, we have adopted Methodological Métissage (Lowan-Trudeau,2012), which is centered on: a) emphasizing Indigenous practices and traditions such as storytelling and symbolizing, and b) working with the elders and members of the community during all stages of the research. In this paper, we only present highlights from the initial discussions around Grafemos, and two models of complex phenomena that emerged from the discussion. The phenomena were also selected by the community members, and were as follows: plastic contamination of their local water supply in Xenacoj, Guatemala, and the story of La Llorona (The Weeping Woman).

Findings & Significance
In each case, as the group began “printing” their motifs, they also reflected on both individual-level actions as well as mid-level (Levy&Wilensky,2008) and emergent-level outcomes (i.e., multi-level reasoning, see Wilensky & Resnick, 1999). For example, in the case of plastic contamination, the group began to discuss what each individual can do in their daily lives to help reduce contamination (e.g., individual use of paper or plastic), as well as how they could come together as a community to address this issue (e.g., enacting policies about plastic use).

Our work illustrates how agent-based modeling – the cornerstone of Wilensky and Papert’s (2010) restructuration theory - can bring about a fundamental alignment between Indigenous approaches (e.g., use of Mayan fabric design practices) and Western approaches (e.g., use of agent-based modeling and multi-level reasoning) for modeling complexity.

Authors

• Marilú Lam-Herrera, University of Calgary

• Pratim Sengupta, University of Calgary