Three-dimensional Science Learning & Agent-based Modeling

Students at K-12 levels are expected to perform science and engineering practices and use disciplinary core ideas and crosscutting concepts to make sense of natural phenomena and solve problems (NRC, 2012). This website provides a number of agent-based computer models to support such three-dimensional science learning processes. Developed by Dr. Lin Xiang in the Department of STEM Education at the University of Kentucky, these models allow students to investigate a range of biological processes and phenomena highlighted in the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).   For example, the "Carrying Capacity" model specifically addresses the NGSS performance expectation "HS-LS2-1 Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics". Using these models may create a learning environment that engages students in making observations, asking questions, collecting and analyzing data, conducting mathematical and computational thinking, identifying patterns and causality, and constructing explanations.  When desired, teachers may even engage students in computational modeling using relevant programming languages.  For example, students may develop and use agent-based computer models to understand epidemics and explore how to mitigate them.  

Related Information:

• What is an agent-based computer model (ABM)?

• How do agent-based computer models support student learning?