Functional Modelling in Secondary Schools Using Spreadsheets

Abstract

During the last decade we developed a didactical concept for a mandatory, dedicated subject “informatics” at secondary schools. The proposed teaching approach combines modelling techniques with the use of software tools and programming languages. This paper is focussed on the part of the concept which applies functional modelling on a spreadsheet from a “black box” point of view.

The course of lessons starts with the introduction of data flow diagrams which is motivated by the need of a “divide and conquer” strategy in order to describe and structure complex systems. As soon as the students are able to apply data flow diagrams, they start to simulate some data flow diagrams with specific properties using spread sheets. The first step towards the spreadsheet is transforming the diagrams into terms, which consist exclusively of functions that are offered by the used program in a “ready made” way. Thus we combine the benefit of modelling abilities (e.g., education towards strategic planning or proper description of complex systems) with the training of user skills on important and widespread office software tools. The described concept was accepted by the Bavarian government as part of the new mandatory subject “informatics” in Bavarian Gymnasiums (400 secondary schools which prepare to University) and will be taught there in the 9th grade (age 14–15 years) starting in 2007. Currently it is used in an experimental phase at about 40 schools.