RICE, STEVEN K.*, GRANT E. BROWN, and R. PAUL WILLING. Department of Biological Sciences, Union College, Schenectady, NY 12308. - Computer modeling exercises enhance investigative laboratory experiences in plant biology.
When combined with laboratory or field-based experiments, computer
modeling exercises improve the ability of students to integrate
biological content with experimental design and results. In our
curriculum, undergraduate students design models that simulate
leaf-level photosynthesis, plant growth, and nitrogen cycling
processes and combine their modeling efforts with experimental
investigations. Our students develop their own dynamic computer models
using the STELLA programming environment. This software is simple
enough for students to use without prior programming experience and
powerful enough to simulate realistically complex biological
processes. When developed prior to experiments, such modeling efforts
reinforce biological content, assist with hypothesis generation, and
guide the formulation of specific predictions that can be tested
experimentally. Following experiments, simulation models can be
parameterized with experimental data and the models used to explore
the meaning and application of the students’ results. By combining
modeling experiences with investigative laboratories, students connect
experiments with biological content more effectively. In addition, the
learning process engaged in by students better reflects the scientific
processes carried out by practicing biologists.
Key words: computer modeling, simulation modeling, STELLA