ERIC Number: EJ1297112
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2021-May
Pages: 19
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0007-1013
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Available Date: N/A
Patches as an Expressive Medium for Exploratory Multi-Agent Modelling
British Journal of Educational Technology, v52 n3 p1024-1042 May 2021
This paper outlines the potential gains for Constructionist research and praxis in modelling that might be obtained by recognising the power of the Patch--a humble computational being in the NetLogo modelling environment that has been overshadowed by its more popular fellow agent, the Turtle. To contextualise this opportunity, I describe how Constructionist modelling has thrived by promoting forms of learning that rely on learners' identifying with agents. I argue that patches are a neglected agent type in this multi-agent modelling tradition, and that the possibilities for learners to adopt the patch perspective in support of exploratory forms of modelling and aesthetic expression have been under-researched. Nevertheless, I show there are a variety of powerful ways for learners--both individually and in groups--to identify with patches. I describe ongoing research showing how taking an aesthetic approach to patches has the potential to support individuals and groups in powerful forms of learning with and about multi-agent modelling.
Descriptors: Models, Computation, Thinking Skills, Computer Simulation, Multisensory Learning, Aesthetics
Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www-wiley-com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-us
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
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Author Affiliations: N/A