Emergent Modelling as a Precursor to Mathematical Modelling

Abstract

This chapter discusses the relation between ‘emergent modelling’ and ‘mathematical modelling’. The former that has its roots in RME theory constitutes the main theme of this chapter. It is argued that mathematical modelling requires a preceding learning process, since it requires abstract mathematical knowledge to construe a mathematical model. The emergent-modelling design heuristic offers a means for shaping a series of modelling tasks that may foster the development of that abstract mathematical knowledge. The emergent-modelling heuristic is illustrated with an instructional sequence on data analysis.