An interactive epidemic simulator: a maths EPQ idea
A title to start from
Can an interactive simulation help Year 12 students understand how epidemics spread?
Why it works as an EPQ
The artefact is a simulation you build from an SIR model; the research and testing decide whether it teaches well.
Scope and difficulty
Solid. Solid. A web page or spreadsheet; test with consenting classmates and anonymous feedback.
The maths
Builds on these A Level topics: Differentiation · Numerical methods · Probability.
You would learn:
- SIR models
- Agent-based simulation
- Evaluating a teaching tool
One possible plan
- Research what students misunderstand about epidemics.
- Write a design brief and success criteria.
- Build and test the simulation, checking it against the equations.
- Evaluate it with users against your criteria.
Pitfalls
- A good-looking tool with no research behind it.
- Feedback without consent.
Where to start reading
- Search for: agent based SIR simulation
- Search for: evaluating educational resources pre post test
Making something? Read the artefact guide first: an artefact still needs a research-based written report.
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