In this paper, we propose as much as possible to analyze the topic of modeling in computer science. This section is of great importance for the training of future specialists in the field of information technology.
To solve any problem (industrial or scientific), computer science uses the following chain:
an object | model | algorithm | program | result | real object |
It should pay special attention to the concept of “model”. Without this link, a solution to the problem would not be possible. Why is the model used and what is meant by this term? We will talk about this in the next section.
Model
Modeling in computer science is the compilation of the image of any really existing object, which reflects all the essential signs and properties. A model for solving the problem is necessary, since it, in fact, is used in the solution process.
In the school computer science course, the topic of modeling begins to be studied in the sixth grade. At the very beginning, children need to be introduced to the concept of a model. What it is?
- Simplified semblance of an object;
- A small copy of a real object;
- Scheme of a phenomenon or process;
- Image of a phenomenon or process;
- Description of the phenomenon or process;
- Physical analogue of an object;
- Informational analogue;
- A substitute object that reflects the properties of a real object and so on.
A model is a very broad concept, as it has already become clear from the above. It is important to note that all models are usually divided into groups:
Under the material model is understood an object based on a real existing object. It can be any body or process. This group is usually divided into two types:
Such a classification is conditional, because it is very difficult to draw a clear line between these two subspecies.
The ideal model is even more difficult to characterize. She is associated with:
- thinking
- imagination;
- perception.
It includes works of art (theater, painting, literature, and so on).
Modeling goals
Modeling in computer science is a very important stage, since it pursues a lot of goals. Now we offer to get to know them.
First of all, modeling helps to know the world around us. From time immemorial, people have accumulated knowledge and passed it on to their descendants. Thus a model of our planet (globe) appeared.
In past centuries, modeling of non-existent objects was carried out, which are now firmly entrenched in our lives (umbrella, mill, and so on). Currently, modeling is aimed at:
- identification of the consequences of any process (increase in the cost of travel or disposal of chemical waste underground);
- ensuring the effectiveness of decisions.
Simulation tasks
We mentioned in the article what modeling is in computer science. This process has some tasks, which we will discuss in this section.
What is the challenge in modeling? Suppose that we have a problem, to solve it we need to solve a number of problems. That is, a task is a problem that must be dealt with. It is important to note that all tasks can be divided into two large groups.
Type of tasks | Explanation |
Direct | These tasks pose the following question: “What will happen if we choose this solution from the possible set?” In this case, it is worth paying attention to the fact that the direct task gives us the initial data, specific conditions. |
Reverse | Inverse problems pose slightly different questions: "How to maximize the performance criterion? Which solution is possible that satisfies this condition?" |
Verbal model
What are the modeling methods? Informatics uses only two methods - information and mathematical. But it is important to mention another type of model - verbal. We will talk about it a little more in detail.
The verbal model belongs to the category of ideal or abstract. This description is with letters, words, sentences. These models include:
- protocol;
- Traffic Laws;
- information in educational literature;
- fiction;
- an oral or written description of an item, process or phenomenon.
Mathematical model
What other types of models are being studied in computer science? Information modeling and mathematical (algorithmic) are usually divided. Although, as mentioned earlier, the boundaries between verbal, mathematical and informational models are very arbitrary.
In simple terms, the mathematical model describes any situation from a mathematical point of view. Not noticing for ourselves, we are engaged in mathematical modeling daily. For example: a mother sends a child for bread and milk. She knows how much these products cost in a store located next to the house. Now you need to calculate how much money to give the child. Suppose milk costs 75 rubles and 50 kopecks, and bread costs 30 rubles 20 kopecks. The whole purchase will cost 105 rubles, 70 kopecks (75.5 + 30.2). This is an example of a mathematical model.
Information model
Now let's talk about another type of model studied in the school course in computer science. Computer modeling, which must be mastered by every future IT specialist, includes the process of implementing an information model using computer tools. But what is this information model?
It represents a whole list of information about an object. What this model describes, and what useful information it carries:
- properties of the simulated object;
- his condition;
- communication with the outside world;
- relationships with external objects.
What can serve as an information model:
- verbal description;
- text;
- picture;
- table;
- scheme;
- drawing;
- formula and so on.
A distinctive feature of the information model is that it cannot be touched, tasted, and so on. It does not carry material embodiment, as it is presented in the form of information.
A systematic approach to creating a model
In which class of the school curriculum does simulation study? 9th grade computer science introduces students to this topic in more detail. It is in this class that the child learns about a systematic modeling approach. We offer to talk about this a little more.
Let's start with the concept of "system". This is a group of interconnected elements that work together to accomplish a task. To build a model, they often use a systematic approach, since the object is considered as a system that operates in some environment. If any complex object is modeled, then the system is usually divided into smaller parts - subsystems.
Purpose of use
Now we will consider the goals of modeling (computer science grade 11). It was said earlier that all models are divided into some types and classes, but the boundaries between them are arbitrary. There are several signs by which it is customary to classify models: goal, area of knowledge, time factor, way of presentation.
As for the goals, it is customary to distinguish the following types:
- training;
- experienced;
- imitation;
- gaming;
- scientific and technical.
The first type includes educational materials. To the second, reduced or enlarged copies of real objects (model of a structure, aircraft wings, and so on). The simulation model allows you to predict the outcome of an event. Simulation is often used in medicine and the social sphere. For example, does a model help you understand how people will respond to a particular reform? Before performing a major organ transplant surgery on a person, many experiments were carried out. In other words, the simulation model allows you to solve the problem by trial and error. A game model is a kind of economic, business, or war game. Using this model, you can predict the behavior of an object in different situations. A scientific and technical model is used to study a process or phenomenon (a device simulating a lightning discharge, a model of the motion of the planets of the solar system, and so on).
Field of knowledge
In which class are students more familiar with modeling? 9th grade computer science focuses on preparing its students for exams for admission to higher education. Since there are questions on modeling in USE and GIA tickets, now it is necessary to consider this topic in more detail. And so, how is the classification according to the field of knowledge? On this basis, the following types are distinguished:
- biological (for example, artificially caused in animals diseases, genetic disorders, malignant neoplasms);
- economic (a model of a firm’s behavior, a market price formation model, etc.)
- historical (family tree, models of historical events, model of the Roman army and the like);
- sociological (a model of personal interest, the behavior of bankers in adapting to new economic conditions) and so on.
Time factor
According to this characteristic, two types of models are distinguished:
Already, judging by one name, it is not difficult to guess that the first type reflects the functioning, development and change of any object in time. Static, on the contrary, is able to describe an object at a particular moment in time. This view is sometimes called structural, since the model reflects the structure and parameters of the object, that is, it provides a slice of information about it.
Examples of a dynamic model are:
- a set of formulas reflecting the movement of the planets of the solar system;
- graph of air temperature;
- footage of a volcanic eruption and so on.
Examples of a statistical model are:
- list of planets of the solar system;
- map of the area and so on.
Presentation method
To begin with, it is very important to say that all models have a look and shape, they are always made of something, somehow presented or described. On this basis, it is customary to classify models in this way:
The first type includes tangible copies of existing objects. They can be touched, sniffed and so on. They reflect the external or internal properties, the actions of any object. What are material models for? They are used for the experimental method of cognition (experimental method).
To intangible models, we also appealed earlier. They use the theoretical method of cognition. Such models are usually called ideal or abstract. This category is divided into several subspecies: imaginary models and information.
Information models provide a list of various information about the object. As an information model can be tables, figures, verbal descriptions, diagrams, and so on. Why is this model called intangible? The thing is that it cannot be touched, since it does not have a material embodiment. Among the information models distinguish between iconic and visual.
An imaginary model is one of the stages of modeling. This is a creative process that takes place in the imagination of a person, which precedes the creation of a material object.
Modeling steps
The subject on computer science of the 9th class “Modeling and formalization” is of great weight. It is required to study. In grades 9-11, the teacher is obliged to introduce students to the stages of creating models. This is what we will do now. So, the following stages of modeling are distinguished:
- substantial statement of the problem;
- mathematical statement of the problem;
- computer development;
- model operation;
- getting the result.
It is important to note that when studying everything that surrounds us, the processes of modeling and formalization are used. Computer science is a subject devoted to modern methods of studying and solving any problems. Therefore, the emphasis is on models that can be implemented using computers. Particular attention in this topic should be given to the point of developing a solution algorithm using electronic computers.
Links between objects
Now let's talk a little about the relationships between objects. There are three types in total:
- one to one (such a connection is indicated by a one-way arrow in one or the other direction);
- one to many (multiple communication is indicated by a double arrow);
- many to many (such a connection is indicated by a double arrow).
It is important to note that communications can be conditional and unconditional. Unconditional communication involves the use of each instance of the object. And in the conditional only individual elements are involved.