Abstract

The Cognitive Science of Modeling Tools

This presentation examines how modeling tools can become intuitive extensions of human cognition, enabling seamless interaction in Model-Driven Engineering (MDE). Building on Heidegger’s concepts of “ready-to-hand” and “present-at-hand,” as well as Piaget’s theory of cognitive schemata, we explore how tool transparency is more than just usability—it shapes how users think, learn, and interact with modeling environments. By aligning philosophical insights with cognitive psychology, we show how transparent tools reduce cognitive friction, allowing users to focus on modeling rather than the tool itself. When tools align with pre-existing cognitive schemata, they become effortless extensions of the user’s workflow. Conversely, when tools require significant schema adaptation, they introduce cognitive disruptions that hinder productivity—often resulting in a steeper learning curve that makes adoption slower and more challenging. Through practical examples, we discuss how modeling tools should facilitate schema formation and adaptation, ensuring intuitive use while fostering learning. The talk concludes by outlining design principles that promote tool transparency, guiding the next generation of modeling environments toward greater accessibility, usability, and cognitive alignment.

About Alfonso Pierantonio

Alfonso Pierantonio is a Professor of Software Engineering at the University of L’Aquila, Italy. His expertise lies in Model-Driven and Language Engineering, with a strong focus on co-evolution techniques, consistency management, and tool development. He has authored over 190 scientific articles and played a key role in organizing major international conferences, including MoDELS and STAF. Alfonso serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Object Technology and is a member of the editorial and advisory boards of Software and System Modeling and Science of Computer Programming. He has chaired several prestigious events, including ECMFA 2018 (PC Chair), STAF 2015, and MoDELS 2023 (General Chair), and is a Steering Committee member for ACM/IEEE MoDELS and other key initiatives. He is a co-principal investigator of multiple research and industrial projects. More recently, he launched the jjodel project, aiming to integrate cutting-edge front-end technologies into modeling tools.

About Current Trends in Computer Science

This lecture is part of the Current Trends in Computer Science Lecture Series by the TU Wien Informatics Doctoral School, where renowned Guest Professors hold public lectures every semester. If you are studying with us, the lecture series can be credited as an elective course for students of master programs of computer science: 195.072 Current Trends in Computer Science. Additionally, you can join courses held by this year’s Guest Professors of our doctoral colleges and the TU Wien Informatics Doctoral School.

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