“MODELLING AND SPREADSHEET CALCULATION”

A. The process of modelling is a constant oscillation between various levels of abstraction. This can be divided into the following phases:- get to grips with the problem (define the key questions)- formulate a mathematical model- generate solutions (from the mathematical model)- validate the model (and if necessary re-formulate the model until it fits with the real-world-context) B. Especially pupils in lower secondary schools have problems formulating their ideas or assumptions in a mathematical (algebraic) way. The transfer from the spoken language into the mathematical language becomes a difficulty as well, as it’s not easy for them to generate solutions from the mathematical model. With spreadsheets these effects could be reduced in some fields because it is not urgently necessary to define variables and formulate equations. Furthermore the possibility of intuitive use and the splitting into modules appear as an advantage. C. We have a classification for models. − Models which process large quantities of data in an elementary fashion. − Models which solve by using systematic testing. − Models which are based on iteration and recursion. − The qualitative and quantitative evaluation of data which requires only functional relations