Simulation and Modelling - μια άποψη

Simulation and modelling are often used interchangeably in the literature. In this paper, we make a clear demarcation of the two based upon the nature of the activities that they can support. The demarcation between simulation and modelling is analogous to that
between toy cars and Lego bricks (Bliss & Ogborn 1989). Simulations can be classified as models with pre-defined rules of operation and interaction among objects they encompass. Simulations can be used to support exploratory learning activities in which students can explore the simulation by manipulating the variables or parameters provided, but not the underlying
theories and rules of operation. In contrast, modelling environments provide students with a
greater flexibility to modify models or even construct their own models by creating objects and defining the rules of interaction. Modelling therefore extends the scope of learning from exploratory to encompass more expressive activities (Ogborn & Bliss 1994; Ogborn
1998).