Teaching New Skills Using Complex Models
The Green Path - Inspired Block Series
The heart of any training or change effort is helping people adopt a new way of doing things—but that takes more than just explaining how. As we explored last week, it starts with connecting the new concept to something they already understand. This initial step on the Green Path, which is what I call the Inspired Block, lays the groundwork for genuine and lasting change.
Visuals are one of the most powerful tools for creating the connection needed to begin the learning journey. In fact, 90% of the information our brains take in is visual, and we process visuals 60,000 times faster than text.
But it’s not just about using any image—there’s a science behind effective visuals.
There are four key visual artifacts that help build the connection needed to start down the Green Path. Last week we explored relationship diagrams. This week, we’re taking a closer look at the Complex Model artifact.
Using a Complex Model effectively comes down to knowing when and how to apply it. These models often take years to develop and refine, so while you shouldn't shy away from creating one if there's a clear need, it’s rarely practical to build one just to support a single skill.
When to use a Complex Model
When the skill you are teaching is tied to an existing process.
How to teach with the Complex Model
Ask yourself: Are you using the model to orient learners to the big picture, or are you actively teaching the model itself? There are three core ways to engage with a Complex Model.
Getting the Gestalt
Show the full model to help learners see all the parts and how they work together. This gives them the big-picture understanding.Deconstructing a Part
Zoom in on specific parts of the model to give a detailed understanding of how each part works.Connecting a Behavior Change
Use the model to show exactly where and how a new behavior applies. This grounds the change in real context.
The first two approaches are about teaching the model. The third is about applying it to influence behavior.
Breaking down a Complex Model
By nature, a true complex model can feel overwhelming at first. Learners might memorize pieces without fully grasping their meaning. That’s why it’s important to break it down based on your learning goals—big picture, focused part, or behavioral relevance.