Potential relations between mathematical modelling and computing education

Title: What are the potential relations between mathematical modelling and computing education - the case of simulations

Speakers: Louise Meier Carlsen (ITU) and Britta Jessen (IND, KU)

Abstract: 

Data science and computing education in upper secondary mathematics has sparked debate among scholars about the traditional view of math being a gateway to STEM. Mathematical modelling has emerged as a way to connect STEM and math, but further research is needed to understand technology's role in this integration. This paper explores the use of technology in mathematical modelling through simulations, building on previous case studies in this area. Drawing on data science education elements, we investigate the role of technology in a Danish upper secondary math case study where students work on “Are boys better at mathematics than girls?”. Our study analyses a priori the potential for how students can use technology focusing on question-answer dynamics and media-milieu interplay. We ask: What are the potential relations between mathematical modelling and data science when teaching simulations in upper secondary school? Can task design that facilitates explicit media-milieu dialectics support students learning of both.