A formalized representation of a class of phenomena (e.g., complex systems) that is simplified by ignoring certain details. It derives from a theory and can become a kind of mini-theory when it characterizes a process and serves to guide and develop the theory further. In science, a model can be either descriptive or predictive. A predictive model in mathematics or statistics is an equation or set of rules making it possible to predict the dependent variable or the output of a system (e.g., Newton’s equations for his laws of motion). A descriptive model aids in understanding the underlying processes or behavior of a system (e.g., the model of working memory). A model may be used as the basis of simulation or for the purposes of drawing analogies. Analogical models allow the functioning of a new system to be understood by comparing it with that of a familiar system, and as such can serve as an important aid in promoting interdisciplinary research. <\/p>\n
See Analogy (as a trope)<\/a>, Analogical reasoning<\/a>, Complex system<\/a>, Hypothesis<\/a>, Model representation<\/a>, Model systems<\/a>, Newton’s laws of motion<\/a>, Paradigm<\/a>, Theory<\/a>, Working memory<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/body><\/html><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" A formalized representation of a class of phenomena (e.g., complex systems) that is simplified by ignoring certain details. It derives from a theory and can become a kind of mini-theory when it characterizes a process and serves to guide and develop the theory further. In science, a model can be either descriptive or predictive. A … <\/p>\n