This document discusses different types of models used in science education: conceptual models, physical models, and computer models. It notes that individuals actively construct their own knowledge and that students learn best when they are active rather than passive learners. The document also describes studies on using augmented reality, dynamic physical models to teach moon phases, and teaching astronomy concepts to future teachers. It concludes by outlining the researcher's own study comparing the effectiveness of student-manipulated computer models versus physical models for teaching moon phases.

1. By Tom Schwartz

2. Description of Models
 Conceptual Models
 Simplified representations of real objects, phenomena, or
situations
 An external representation created by teachers, that
facilitates the comprehension or teaching of systems
 Physical models
 In the science-education community are considered as
models of real situations and can be carried, touched, or held.
 Computer models
 A computer program which attempts to simulate the behavior
of a particular system

3. Cognitive Aspects of Learning and
Teaching Science
 Individuals actively construct the knowledge they
possess
 Students must be active rather than passive learners
 Control over the model is one of the most important
aspects in determining whether the model will be
effective as a learning tool
 Students can be actively engaged in understanding
and learning the physical world by
constructing, using, or choosing models to
describe, explain, and predict physical phenomena.

4. Limited View of the Use of Models
 Many prospective science teachers described models
as a tool for communicating the explanation of
something that is already understood rather than a
tool that students can use to learn new information.

5. Studies
 Use of Augmented Reality vs. traditional classroom
 Use of dynamic physical model to teach moon phases
 Teaching Future Teachers Basic Astronomy Concepts

6. My Research
 Compare the effectiveness of student-manipulated
computer models to student-manipulated physical
models in teaching moon phases.