Hits and misses of analogue models related to earthquakes used in education

Abstract

The theoretical foundations of the relationships between force, stress and deformation, and also on the nature and propagation of waves are briefly developed. Simple experiences, which are carried out with common low-cost materials, but which serve to carry out didactically appropriate practical activities, have been intentionally selected. The models are analyzed from the perspective of their scope, their different levels of depth and, above all, their limitations, taking into account that this is the least approached subject in usual analyzes, no matter it may induce misconceptions or oversimplification among students. This study opens new perspectives in the use of traditional teaching experiences on earthquakes by incorporating a new dimension: the analysis of the models, their results and the associated technical concepts, what is considered to be key for the students' understanding of the methods of action and reflection used in scientific research.