Modelling

When you hear the word modelling, it is more likely than not that you will think of  men and women strutting down a catwalk, wearing the most up-to-date, 'cool' fashionable clothes. Unfortunately for you, this blog is not focusing on that kind of modelling.

For this workshop we explored Modelling software, what it is, how it can be used within the classroom setting and the benefits children gain from it.

What is modelling?

Computer modelling means using a computer to ‘model’ situations to see how they are likely to work out if you do different things.  If children use a simulation where they have to make decisions that affect the outcome, then go back and try something else, that is computer modelling. For example; using a spreadsheet to work out the cost of something, playing with the figures to see what happens, and eventually deciding on an outcome based on previous knowledge. Children are lead to ask questions such as “What would happen if...?"

A computer model is a simulation or model of a situation in the real world or an imaginary world which has parameters which the user can alter.  For example - If children were asked to design a model house, they would become involved in making a number of decisions: how big will the room need to be? What furniture should it contain and where. Where to put the bed, is it best under the window, or by the radiator? What colour scheme will look good? Will purple walls and a pink floor go together?

A Modelling software similar to this example is 'Building site' (found on the Purple Mash website). Choosing from a number of options, children can build their own house, changing its shape, its color, its layout, and size. 

Modelling in the National Curriculum

At KS1: children are expected to ‘use IT-based models or simulations to explore aspects of real or imaginary situations’.
At KS2: children should ‘explore the effect of changing variables in simulations and similar packages, to ask and answer questions of the ‘What would happen if…?’ type.

Modelling provides a fascinating and engaging activity for students. There are thousands of programmes online that are worth exploring to give your students a productive learning experience. Some of these can be found on Modelling Toolkit, Tizzy's Tools, Kent ICT and Purple Mash (mentioned earlier).

 For a comprehensive review on the impact, positive and negative, of computer games in education. Have a read of the following: http://simge.metu.edu.tr/journal/CE_motivation.pdf

Coding