Davidsen (1996) & Clement (2000)

Davidsen (1996) describes a simulation-based and modeling approach to learning using system dynamics. I think the main issue that he tried to tackle is complex problem-solving. Modeling approach can provide a holistic view of complex problems. Simulation provides an experimental approach for the students to experience the complexity of the problems, and possible effect of proposed solution.

Even though Davidsen (1996) did not put a lot of emphasize on organizational learning, he implies that system dynamics may enhance organizational learning, too.

I think we did talk about the uncertainty issue in complexity, and Davidsen (1996) address this issue by suggesting Monte-Carlo simulation as a tool.

I think Clement (2000) summarized the themes and some studies in that special issue. He tried to develope a cognitive theory of conceptual change, which is very close to what Seel (2003) described, except Clement recognize that the the target model may not be as complicated as the expert model. I think Clement is trying to look at the problem from a "classroom" instructinal point of view, where Seel is looking at more general situation. When students spend long enough time to learn (I assume they learn), the target model will transit to expert model.

I would like to discuss an interesting issue here: students' concept of learning. Students do not believe in inquiry based learning (or learn by moving from one intemediate model to another). Actually, one of the students who participated in our research did not draw a concept map, but just wrote "it is a completely waste of time" on the paper. And, the teacher have a lot of pressure to help the students in standardized test. So, how easy to change our students' concept of learning? If it is not as easy, it there any middle ground to help our students to learn?

Actually, this converstation make me think about the game-based learning argument from Shaffer (2006) and Prensky (2007) that we may help students to learn in game so that they don't even need to think that they are learning. Maybe game-based learning is a solution.