On Milrad, Spector & Davidsen

Focusing on the support that technology can provide in distributed learning environments and complex systems, the author provided us two approached that make use of model: learning with models and learning by modeling. To improve learners' learning, socio-constructivism, system dynamics and collaborative tele-learning are brought together.


The learning process, in which a novice is transferred to be an expert, shows "graduated complexity": MFL advocates a sequence of learning activities that begins with some kind of concrete operation, manipulating tangible objects in order to solve specific problems (Milrad, Spector & Davidsen, 2000). As these operations are mastered, learners can then progress to more abstract representations and solve increasingly complex problems.

This process is in accordance with the increasing difficulty from learning with models to learning by modeling.

Their research is supported by Situated learning theory: novice to expert in community; and Cognitive Flexibility Theory: multiple representation. Learner constructed and
Learner modifiable representation

Rouwette et al (2000) argue that a collaborative approach to model and policy design is effective for learning and understanding.

Causal loop diagram can provide a representation of the entire system, which can support elaboration, knowledge elicitation and assessment of understanding.

Using causal loop to present the problem, let student understand, change a little (variable) and predict, the use simulation to verify, may create disequilibrium, hence promote learning.

I find this process is much like that the Food Chain software provides. Based on same theory, we can design and develop similar effective learning environment or software to facilitate learners with complex problem solving.