Exploringrandomnessviastudying,buildingandsharingmodels.docVIP

Exploring randomness via studying, building and sharing models By Cerulli M., Chioccariello A., Fernaeus Y., Lemut E., Tholander J. Abstract This research focuses on the idea of introducing pupils to randomness in terms of studying, building and sharing models that represent different aspects of the knowledge domain. These models environments we use include programmable ToonTalk microworlds, LEGO robots, and cardboard toys. The use of tangible models allows students to construct and manipulate random variables with their fingers, thereby embodying highly abstract concepts. Probability is a young mathematical discipline. Random, one of its basic concepts, is still under debate. One reason for this ambiguity is that mathematical formalizations of randomness are based either on common sense or on ideas derived from different scientific contexts. Attempts at formalization include notions like: “unpredictability”, “lawlessness”, “incomputability”, “incompressibility”, “indeterminism”, etc. These are not competing notions. Each one characterises one of the key aspects of randomness. The models built, shared and discussed by students are designed to illuminate these various facets. Randomness plays a key role in some dynamic systems. Modelling such systems provides motivation for using randomness as a system component and a conceptual tool. We have designed activities, and a set of tools to support them, in which students model dynamic systems, specifically ecological systems. This activity also raises specific questions about computer modelling of dynamic systems The modelling activity is complemented by collaborative authoring of a WebLabsPedia: an online glossary of terms related to randomness. This verbalization activity aims to help students transform their intuitions into more articulated concepts. Here we describe the educational approach and activity sequence that we set up, and provide examples to discuss findings in terms of how the employed technology contri