Grafemos
Comment: Sources that do not mention Grafemos are very unlikely to be useful in the draft. Helpful Raccoon (talk) 01:04, 27 September 2026 (UTC)
Grafemos is a non-computational complexity modelling framework developed by Marilú Lam-Herrera in collaboration with the Ixkoj Ajkem Community Council in Santo Domingo Xenacoj, Guatemala.[1] The methodology adapts principles from Maya-Kaqchikel textile art and backstrap loom weaving into a physical agent-based modelling tool designed for educational and community-based systems analysis.[2]
Theoretical Framework and Epistemologies
The Grafemos framework integrates principles from Learning Engineering, Decolonial Education, and Indigenous Data Sovereignty.[3]
Maya-Kaqchikel Weaving Epistemologies ("El Grano")
The primary conceptual model of Grafemos relies on "El Grano" (the grain), an analogy derived from the discrete, unit-level embroidered stitches of Maya backstrap loom weaving.[1] In this framework, macro-level systemic emergent patterns (such as community resource distribution or waste accumulation) are represented through the repetitive placement and interaction of micro-level physical units (stamps or physical markers), analogous to how complex textile iconography emerges from individual thread intersections.
Nested Learning Engineering Process
Grafemos adapts a multi-level Learning Engineering Process (LEP) framework operating across three nested tiers:[2][4][5][6]
- Project Level: Focuses on instructional design and community-facilitated educational planning.
- Group Level: Involves collaborative modelling of local socio-ecological issues with educators and community members.
- Individual Level: Focuses on participant reasoning, complexity thinking, and qualitative reflection.[1]
Pedagogical Architecture and Toolkit Mechanics
The physical implementation of Grafemos utilizes non-computational simulation tools, including custom hand-stamps, physical grids, interaction cards, and physical tracking devices (such as the Dode device). Participants use these tools to simulate agent movement, state shifts, and system feedback loops on paper maps representing local geographic context.
History and Academic Development
The methodology was prototyped in 2018 in Santo Domingo Xenacoj, Sacatepéquez, Guatemala. Fieldwork involved local educators, community leaders, and research teams analyzing environmental topics, such as local drainage infrastructure and plastic waste dynamics. The framework builds upon earlier community fieldwork with AIDES in Nebaj, Guatemala,[7] as well as research on human-centered design strategies for design innovation in Guatemala.[8] The academic development, theoretical framework, and pedagogical design were subsequently presented in doctoral research at the University of Calgary.[1]
Data Governance and Indigenous Sovereignty
The collection, storage, and dissemination of research data associated with Grafemos follow the First Nations Principles of OCAP (Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession) and international data governance standards.[3][9][10]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 Lam-Herrera, M. (2022). Grafemos: Design for Complexity Education Based on Maya-Kaqchikel and Western Perspectives (Doctoral Thesis thesis). University of Calgary. p. 194.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Goodell, J.; Kolodner, J., eds. (2022). Learning Engineering Toolkit: Evidence-Based Practices from the Learning Sciences, Instructional Design, and Beyond. Routledge / Taylor & Francis. ISBN 9781032040929. Search this book on
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 "The First Nations Principles of OCAP®". First Nations Information Governance Centre (FNIGC). 2022.
- ↑ Kessler, N.; Totino, A. (2024). "The nested LEPs of a course innovation program: Navigating complexities in design". Poster presented at the ICICLE Conference. Phoenix, Arizona, US.
- ↑ Levy, S. T.; Wilensky, U. (2008). "Inventing a "mid level" to make ends meet: Reasoning between the levels of complexity". Cognition and Instruction. 26 (1): 1–47.
- ↑ Russ, R.; Scherr, R.; Hammer, D.; Mikeska, J. (2008). "Recognizing mechanistic reasoning in student scientific inquiry: A framework for discourse analysis". Science Education. 93: 875–891.
- ↑ Lam-Herrera, M. (2011). Organización para la Puesta en Marcha de una Microempresa de Confección, Aplicada a la Asociación Ixil Para el Desarrollo Económico Y Social (AIDES), en Nebaj, Quiche (PDF) (Licentiate Thesis thesis). Universidad del Istmo.
- ↑ Lam-Herrera, M. L. (2016). "Estudio sobre Estrategia Diseño Centrado en el Humano Orientado a Impulsar la Innovación de Diseño en Guatemala–Enfocado en Salud Sector–". Revista Naturaleza, Sociedad y Ambiente. 3 (1): 31–58.
- ↑ "Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, S.C. 2000, c. 5". Government of Canada.
- ↑ International Organization for Standardization; International Electrotechnical Commission (2025). Information security, cybersecurity and privacy protection — Privacy information management systems — Requirements and guidance (ISO/IEC Standard No. 27701:2025). Search this book on
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