Teaching With Models

Created by Bob MacKay, Clark College

"Scientific practice involves the construction, validation and application of scientific models, so science instruction should be designed to engage students in making and using models." Modeling Methodology for Physics Teachers (more info) (1998)

What is a model?

Model Types: Conceptual, physical demonstrations, mathematical and statistical, and visualization.
This page briefly describes different kinds of models and provides links to more specific information about each of them.
Learn more about the key features of different model types

Why are models useful and important in Geoscience education?

Fundamental to science, great for interactive student-centered environment, ideal for a systems approach (e.g. Earth System Science).
Learn more about what makes models useful

How to use models effectively in a classroom

Pedagogical and technical considerations for using models in the classroom

Examples of models appropriate for introductory courses

A list of model examples