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Home Postgraduate Programmes Units MD650

MD 650 Learning Through Computer Modelling and Simulations
Credits: 20
Tutor: Ivy Brember

Pre-requisites: This is a core module for the M.Ed, in ICT but if there are less than twenty students on this course other M.Ed. students will be able to attend. No experience of the use of computers in schools is required. However it should be noted that as in all computer units students will be expected to spend a considerable amount of time outside classes developing their computer skills beyond that which is taught in class.

Aims

  • To examine the use of computer simulations as a method of learning
  • To examine the use of computer modelling as an aid to learning
  • To examine the philosophy of Logo
  • To explore the use of Logo in the learning process
  • To examine the use of spreadsheets as modelling tools
  • To examine the potential of expert systems
  • To examine the potential of databases in the classroom
  • To examine the potential of computer aided design

Learning outcomes

Typically, students who successfully complete the course unit and assignment will be able to do the following:

  • Evaluate the learning potential of computer simulations and models
  • Create their own computer models using a variety of applications
  • Create an expert system
  • Use Logo in a variety of curriculum subjects
  • Use a CAD package
  • Create a model in a spreadsheet
  • Create a variety of types of databases

Key transferable skills

  • Critical evaluation of the use of computer simulations and models
  • Problem solving skills
  • Programming skills
  • Written communication skills
  • Numeracy skills
Curriculum content

The use of simulations and modelling far pre-dates the use of computers in the learning process. However the computer allows the creation of realistic and interactive models and simulations which can give immediate and helpful feedback. Learners can explore simulations that would be too dangerous, expensive or otherwise impossible to set up in the classroom. This type of environment can be intrinsically motivating and challenging. Exploring models is a positive learning experience but using appropriate software learners can create their own models for others to use. This is a far more demanding and challenging task. Software for creating models including the Logo language will be used in the unit. The topics covered will include:
  • The potential of models and simulations in the learning process
  • Computer simulations and simulations across the curriculum
  • The philosophy of Logo
  • Logo as a way of modelling the though process
  • Using turtle graphics in Logo
  • Logo beyond Turtle graphics
  • Using a computer modelling package
  • Creating expert systems
  • Using Computer Aided design packages
  • Modelling using spreadsheets
  • Control technology
  • Databases in the classroom

Core Publications

Colella,V.S. Klofer,E. Resnick M. Adventures in Modeling: Exploring Complex, Dynamic Systems with StarLogo Teachers College Press; 1997

de Lange, J Innovations in Maths Education by Modelling and Applications. New York, London 1993

Ellington,H. Fowlie,J. Gordon,M. Using Games and Simulations in the Classroom: A Practical Guide for Teachers Kogan Page; 1998. ISBN: 0749425660

Galpin,B Expert Systems in Primary Schools. London, British Library Research and Development Department, 1989

Hoyles,C Logo Mathematics in the Classroom Routledge, London 1992

Jonassen,D Computers as Mindtools for Schools Prencice Hall London 1999

Kappa E. Problem solving, planning ability and sharing processes with LOGO Journal of Computer Assisted Learning Volume 15 Page 73-84 March 1999

Mellar.H et al (1994) :Learning with Artificial Worlds: Computer Based Modelling in the Curriculum. London, Falmer, 1994

Papert, S Mindstorms: Children, Computers and Powerful Ideas. New York, London 1993

Papert, S. The children's machine : rethinking school in the age of the computer Harvester Wheatsheaf, 1994.

Resnick,M Turtles, Termites, and Traffic Jams: Explorations in Massively Parallel Microworlds (Complex Adaptive Systems) The MIT Press; 1997

SEAC Modelling with Turtle Graphics NCET Coventry 1993

Underwood, J Computers and Learning helping Children Acquire Thinking Skills. Oxford, Blackwell, 1990

Teaching method arrangements

Lectures, hands-on sessions in computer labs and video presentations.

Timetable

Monday evenings Semester 2.

Assessment

A 2000 word essay on an aspect of Computer Modelling ,a piece of Logo programming and a computer model with accompanying notes created in Modus or Expert Builder or on a spreadsheet.

Time Allocation and Credits

MD 650 Activity Time (Hours)
Staff/student contact sessions 24
Private study/assignment preparation 116
Directed reading 55
Tutorials 5
Total hours 200
Credits 20
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Last updated: Fri, 01-Oct-2004 10:40