Introduction

• Models are tools of inquiry in a way that theories may not be.
• By representing the system being observed, they provide a way of working through the problems of a “real world” system more abstractly.
• Models provide the “what” and the “how,” they are not as suited to explaining “why,” and therefore are rarely as satisfying as strong theory.

Four Functions of Model

The model should provide four functions.

1. The simplest definition of the model is that is equivalent. It should organize a complex system as general as possible. Models give us an idea of complicated objects or events in a general way
2. The model should provide an experimental function. A model can be constructed to describe the particular form of behavior in which no theory exists or is inadequate
3. The most important purpose of model building is to assist in the development of more precise theories. Theories are not models and the most fundamental difference between them is that the theory is an explanation and a model is a representation.
4. They should also provide some form of measurement of the system that will work analogously within the model and the actual system being observed. The model represents a system or process. They are symbolic ways at system to help us to think about them more logically

Advantage of model

1. It helps to give structure to the events. One can be settled down by constructing a model to observe their relationship.
2. It clarifies the structures of events. Models communicate quickly and with great transparency by identifying the parameters of the events
3. It identifies the variables that should be studied. It guides the direction of what we looking for.
4. Models permit the manipulation of variables with ease without interfering with real-life setting
5. Help to understand complex systems or events
6. It provides framework within which experiments are done
7. Helps us to see new relationships of variables
8. Helps to predict the future course of events
9. Models are fun to design, fun to build, and fun to look at.

Limitation of models

1. Oversimplification of events. It is still inadequate or oversimplified in most of the situations bringing about distortion.
2. The relationship shown in the models may not match the actual events or reality. Thus there is the possibility of errors.
3. Models are more theoretically oriented and less practically oriented
4. Models become the end rather than a means to achieve the ends