Scientific understanding is based on models and modelling. Whether it concerns current challenges, such as climate change, or fundamental questions, such as the evolution of the universe, models allow scientists to create explanations and generate predictions. Understanding the nature and role of models is critical for citizens’ scientific literacy. Therefore, education should work towards developing students' modelling competence. Although the need for developing students’ modelling competence is recognised in curriculum documents, the practice of teaching models and modelling is lagging in the Netherlands.
This project aims to build a comprehensive understanding of modelling competence and evaluation tools, appropriate teacher training programmes, and advanced modelling tools within specific school subjects in lower secondary education. To address these challenges and requirements, in this project, we aim to:
- Develop a clear understanding of what constitutes modelling competence and how to evaluate it,
- Explore what kind of support teachers need to facilitate the development of students’ modelling competence, and
- Investigate how advanced computational modelling tools can support students’ modelling competence.
Several qualitative and quantitative research methods will be employed in the project, using research tools such as questionnaires, interviews, recorded screencasts, and model products. We will also design, test, and implement hybrid computational modelling software to support students’ modelling competence. Taken together, the results of this project will provide a comprehensive overview of the curricular potential of models and modelling and contribute to enhancing students’ modelling competence to support their scientific literacy and productive engagement in science and society.