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Modeling and Simulation

Computational Thinking

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Modeling & Simulation

Modeling is the process of representing a system to allow one to

observe,
understand,
or simulate it.

Models can be used to simulate real world phenomena that are not easy to observe or reproduce, and often generate simulated data that can further understanding of the system or make predictions.

NYSS + CT

K-1.CT.1 Identify and describe one or more patterns (found in nature or designed), and examine the patterns to find similarities and make predictions.

2-3.CT.1 Create a model of an object or computational process in order to identify patterns and essential elements of the object or process.

4-6.CT.1 Develop a computational model of a system that shows changes in output when there are changes in inputs.

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Flip the coin —computer can do it much faster

Science�Computers allow us to model many real-world phenomena. This allows us to input lots of different characteristics/variables and the computer will output something that approximates reality.

https://www.jacobkelter.com/infection-model/

Modeling is a way to create a virtual representation of a real-world system that includes software and hardware.

Simulation is used to evaluate a new design, diagnose problems with an existing design, and test a system under conditions that are hard to reproduce in an actual system.

Modeling is the process of creating a representation of a system that captures its essential features and behaviors. This representation can be mathematical, graphical, or physical, and it is used to study the system and make predictions about its behavior.

Simulation, on the other hand, is the process of using a model to study a system by running experiments or "what-if" scenarios. Simulation involves inputting data into a model and then running it to see how the system behaves. The output from the simulation can be used to make predictions, test hypotheses, and gain insights into the system.

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Modeling & Simulation, NO computer?

Is it possible to represent a system without a computer?

NYSS + CT

K-1.CT.1 Identify and describe one or more patterns (found in nature or designed), and examine the patterns to find similarities and make predictions.

2-3.CT.1 Create a model of an object or computational process in order to identify patterns and essential elements of the object or process.

4-6.CT.1 Develop a computational model of a system that shows changes in output when there are changes in inputs.

Although not be completely accurate in scale or exact distance from the sun, this model was created to show that the solar system has 9 planets of varying size. These planets were put in order of orbit. It’s an abstract model of a system.

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Flip the coin —computer can do it much faster

Science�Computers allow us to model many real-world phenomena. This allows us to input lots of different characteristics/variables and the computer will output something that approximates reality.

https://www.jacobkelter.com/infection-model/

Modeling is a way to create a virtual representation of a real-world system that includes software and hardware.

Simulation is used to evaluate a new design, diagnose problems with an existing design, and test a system under conditions that are hard to reproduce in an actual system.

Modeling is the process of creating a representation of a system that captures its essential features and behaviors. This representation can be mathematical, graphical, or physical, and it is used to study the system and make predictions about its behavior.

Simulation, on the other hand, is the process of using a model to study a system by running experiments or "what-if" scenarios. Simulation involves inputting data into a model and then running it to see how the system behaves. The output from the simulation can be used to make predictions, test hypotheses, and gain insights into the system.

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Modeling & Simulation, NO computer?

Is it possible to build an accurately scaled model of our solar system without a computer?

This computer generated simulation shows distance and orbit speed.

How would you build a physical representation of the same?

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They needed 7 miles and a marble. . .

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Reflection

Modeling the scale of our solar system with a physical build.

What dataset was used to build this model?

What prediction did this team make with their model?

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Computer models and simulations

Computers run tasks faster and more efficiently than humans can. (That’s why we made them)

This simulation of our solar system includes our sun’s orbit around the galaxy to show how we move through space more accurately.

What observations or predictions can you make?

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Examples of Models & Simulations

COVID transmission simulation game

source: ecals.cals.wisc.edu/2020/05/04/apl-debuts-covid-crush-virus-transmission-simulation-game

Canada Wildfires

source:

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/us/smoke-maps-canada-fires.html

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Connections to the Real World

Weather predictions:

temperature
hurricane paths

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Connections to the Real World

Waze is a tool that can simulate a route based on given parameters as well as traffic data and patterns.

It can use the traffic and construction information collected to simulate and predict the future travel time.

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Connections to the Real World

Fire drills

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Modeling & Simulation in Academics

Classroom

Scratch

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Content area connections

What are some non-computer generated forms of modeling data in your instructional practices? I.e. graphs, diorama, prototype, acting, music sheets, dewey decimal system, etc

What are some computer-generated models or simulations that can more efficiently represent systems in your content area?

NYSS + CT

K-1.CT.1 Identify and describe one or more patterns (found in nature or designed), and examine the patterns to find similarities and make predictions.

2-3.CT.1 Create a model of an object or computational process in order to identify patterns and essential elements of the object or process.

4-6.CT.1 Develop a computational model of a system that shows changes in output when there are changes in inputs.

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Ex: Library, Dewey Decimal System

Card Catalog

This classification system is how materials are organized in a library. The card catalog is a model of the physical collection. Data (Title, author decimal number) are written on the cards and organized the same way as the books, but at a much smaller scale.

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Ex: Library, Dewey Decimal System

Database

A database is like a computer model of the catalog.

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Ex: Library, Dewey Decimal System

Card Catalog

Database

Which model do you think is more efficient for users to find information in a library? Which one is more fun to use? 😉

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Modeling & Simulation in Academics

ELA (create models of different types of poems, simulate new ones!)

https://www.poem-generator.org.uk

express.co.uk/news/science/1342087/ai-news-artificial-intelligence-shakespeare-sonnets-national-poetry-day

developer.nvidia.com/blog/ai-sonnet-writing-poet-resembles-shakespeare

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NY State Standard Connection

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