About using models for theories: such as the particle theory of matter

“…the fundamental fact about learning: anything is easy if you can assimilate it into your collection of models…what an individual can learn, and how he learns it, depends on what models he has available." (Papert)

Models and computer simulations can be extremely useful for allowing scientists and students to visualise theories such as the particle theory of matter. It must be remembered that models are only representations; they are not real . The link takes you to a short article about using models in science education. The article is from the Junior science site for teachers in Ireland About using models