Models, however simple they may be, always offer variety, contribute to understanding, appeal to different types of learners and have something playful and motivating about them. Practical material helps students to understand and grasp practical problems. That is why I would like to take up the cudgels in favour of models, original visual objects and their presentation in courses.
Of course, complex animations and simulations can be used to visualise facts in a very clear, almost infinitely scalable and abstract way. However, they usually lack the third dimension and the opportunity to touch, "grasp" and playfully interact with the model.
Various physical models can also be introduced into lectures in conjunction with the theoretical material. In the course of the lecture, they can be passed around the classroom, compared with other models or modified and their new properties evaluated. Simple model kits with wooden, metal or plastic elements (for children) can serve as the basis for such models.
