Modeling Approach in Particle Physics

Abstract

Modeling is the heart of theory and the basis of the scientific approach. Modeling is an important tool in particle physics to represent, explain and introduce invisible entities to the scientific world. In the same vein, it contributes to the development of students' skills such as thinking, researching, understanding, questioning and predicting. Therefore, emphasis is placed on models and modeling in the field of physics. In the research, high school physics curriculums and textbooks were scrutinized to determine the status of the modeling approach in the field of particle physics in our country. At the end of the research, three learning outcomes related to modeling were identified, and in 30 learning outcomes, students were asked to give mathematical models and examine them. In only two learning outcomes related to particle physics, students were asked to explain models. In the examined MEB 12th grade high school and science high school physics textbooks, the modeling approach was not mentioned at all and very few activities were given. At the end of the research, it was suggested that in order to teach particle physics effectively, the modeling approach should be emphasized in high school physics curricula and textbooks, the number of modeling outcomes should be increased, methods that will improve students' scientific process skills should be applied, and the type and quantity of modeling activities should be increased.