This study explores the relationship between interactive imagery and shared mental models in a design learning environment. The thesis focuses on design, design learning, and the cognitive components of design. In this research, conceptual project development processes of Izmir Institute of Technology third class architecture students from a studio where four instructors gave desk critiques on a rotational basis are examined. Within the scope of the study, interviews were conducted with four students and four studio instructors. The process was analyzed and interpreted with the collected data and interviews. It is argued that interactive imagery and shared mental models, which are shaped in the studio's desk critiques, juries and panel reviews, affect the students' conceptual project development. It is possible to conclude that if there are more than one studio instructor giving desk critiques on a rotational basis, students may have both advantages and disadvantages. Keywords: Design; Design Learning; Design Cognition; Representation; Reasoning; Interactive Imagery; Mental Model