STELLA.

A few days, I reported on a app that could used in class to build systems called SPLASH!.  I also learned about another systems dynamic software at the conference.

This software, STELLA, is offered by ISEE Exchange .  It has the same pieces as SPLASH! but it is web based so it works on more devices than the other.  Furthermore, it is free for educational uses.

 Once you've got a free account, you can set up a new model for the account.  You name it, add an URL, with a description.  When you add the model, it opens up with a blank canvas.  This is the place where you put the big square for the item that changes such as bank accounts and interest, or water going in and out of a pail.



At the top, as part of the bar with everything, the first four items used in the setup.  The square for the item that changes, the spigot for inflow and outflow such as interest rate or birth and death rates or anything else that will change the main item.  There is the circle which is the converter or the math part of the process.

This site does offer tutorials on every part of the process from placing a stock or the thing that changes such as money in the bank, to adding inflows and outflows, entering values, graphs, to creating tables, scaling variables, placing and using connectors, and adding converters.  Everything you need to create your own model.

In addition, one can find models to see the possibilities for using the software.  The models include things like college loans, the zombie apocalypse, the spread of measles, housing and supply demand, humanitarian aid, and so many other topics.

Besides using models as a way of seeing how things can be done, they can also be used to see real models in action.  So even if the class doesn't have time to actually build a system, there are models you can use in class.  For instance, if the class is studying exponential functions, use a model to show how it works.

This is mathematical modeling in real life.  It takes the problem and allows students to see how the math connects with the process and puts it all in perspective.  I would say this software is a bit more complex than SPLASH! but I think it is aimed at grades 8 and above.

Check it out and let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.