Teaching With Models Dr Jatinder Singh Website Editor

Teaching With Models Dr. Jatinder Singh Website Editor – IJP Dept. of Pharmacology Government Medical College, Amritsar 143 001 jatindersingh@vsnl. com

What is a Model? v A model is a simplified representation of a system, which concentrates attention on specific aspects of the system. v Models enable different aspects of the system; objects, events, or ideas which are either complex, or on a different scale to that which is normally perceived, or is abstract. v These are rendered either visible or more readily visible

Models Physical Analog Conceptual Mathematical Compare Reality Statistical Visual

Physical Models v Interactive physical models of systems can be easily observed and manipulated and have characteristics similar to key features of more complex systems in the real world. v These models can help bridge the gap between conceptual models and models of more complex real world systems. v The most recognisable type of models.

Why Use Models? v Provide an environment for interactive student activity. v Enhance systems thinking abilities v Models and model development are useful for helping students learn quantitative skills such as graphical analysis, visualization, statistics and computational skills

“…. evidence suggests that with the use of activity based science programs, teachers can expect substantially improved performances in science processes” Bredderman, T. “What Research Says: Activity Science - The Evidence Shows it Matters, ” Science and Children (1982), 1, pp. 39 -41.

Why Use Models? contd… v Model construction is a way of improving thinking skills and enhance collaborative efforts. v Encourage logic, reasoning and creativityall assets to the scientific thought process. v An important reason to use a model is that one can perform experiments without harming the system of interest.

How to use Models-Technical aspects v Acquiring the models or ideas in a useable form. v Identification and use of the proper equipment and components for physical models. v The models should possess a scope for manipulating the modelling environment.

v Models can be used to introduce specific content. v Models can be used to explore "What-if" scenarios. v Models can be used explore the sensitivity of a system to variations in its different components. v Models can be used for evaluation during examinations.

Modelling! Decide on the purpose of the model Collect information and data Reject Conceptual Model Produce a conceptual model Modify conceptual model Test Failed Consider scope and limitation of model Construct physical model Design and perform tests Purpose fulfilled Test Passed

Validation v Important aspect of the process. v Done at two levels: Ø The conceptual model by undertaking a dry-run Ø Validation of results of the test and analyzing them for their corroboration with the real-life purpose of the model. v Documentation of the process of making the model should be done to ensure reproducibility.

v Successful modeling involves a clear perception of Ø why a model is being produced. Ø the audience that would make use of it. v Construction of the model only requires inexpensive materials, which can be found around the classroom or purchased at scientific stores. v Above all - Simplicity

Examples Please pass the cauliflower…… v Models can range from the downright simple to the more sophisticated

MODEL DEMONSTRATING CARDIOVASCULAR PRINCIPLES

Model for intravenous injection

Model for IV Injection v Objective - a model to teach IV injecting skills. v External appearance - reasonably resembles a hand forearm v Texture - not very similar to skin v Advantages: Ø Easy to make Ø Can be reused Ø Can be used for testing in OSPE Ø Students can use for practice

Conclusion v Models provide a supplement to traditional teaching v The construction and subsequent manipulation of a model demonstrates many important principles. v The model should be designed Ø with clearly defined goals Ø relevant content Ø questions and answers ……all of these ensure a positive cooperative learning experience for both students and instructors.