Illuminating Scientists’ Modeling Competence

Abstract

This chapter provides evidence that scientists’ use of models are central to their research. Two scientists – a microbiologist working with bacteria and a perinatal physiologist working on sheep fetuses were asked how they used their models in science. These conversations provided illustrative data to show that models and modeling were centre stage when scientists were designing their research and thinking about the whole scientific enterprise. It was apparent that these scientists routinely used models both for theory building, and in their scientific practice as a research tool. Furthermore their knowledge of the multiplicity of roles for models was evident when they discussed how they routinely adapted their models as the context changed alongside the questions being asked. It is argued that reading these narratives could provide the reader with an insight into the messiness, creativity and complexity of the scientific process and give a deeper insight into scientific research rather than attempting to analyse and assess a scientist’s modeling competence.