Models as a pedagogical tool: can we learn from Maxwell?

Published under licence by IOP Publishing Ltd
, , Citation Brian Gee 1978 Phys. Educ. 13 287 DOI 10.1088/0031-9120/13/5/004

0031-9120/13/5/287

Abstract

Presents a discussion of how physical models may best be used in teaching. It is stressed that one must be prepared to drop a model if contradictory evidence comes to light and also that the place a model has as an educational tool parallels its use in advancing a scientific theory. As an illustration Maxwell's mechanical vortex model that he used to develop his electromagnetic theory is discussed.

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10.1088/0031-9120/13/5/004