18 The use of abstract models to explain and predict

Sometimes called ‘formal models’. These are working models in which the ‘moving parts’ are abstract entities which have to be imagined. Scientists are familiar with hypothesising using these kinds of models e.g. the particle nature of solids, liquids and gases, predator/prey relationships, chemical equilibrium and rates of reaction to name but a few. The models are used to explain and predict phenomena, so in some  respects they do represent a kind of reality. To use abstract modelling, the thinker enters into a ‘micro world’ in which she can relate action on any one part of that world to the effects and repercussions on other parts of the world. It requires the ability to think about dynamic systems. So, in summary, we used Piaget’s work to give us both the descriptions of the reasoning patterns required for formal operational thinking and the way in which children at different stages of development will apply that type of reasoning. These insights create the ‘content’ of each lesson. In other words, each lesson is designed to promote a particular type of reasoning. Vygotsky’s work gives us a model for how to teach an intervention lesson.