Study Guide

Network Builder teacher and learner guide

Use this guide to frame the tool with a clear question, expected observations, and model-limits discussion rather than treating it as a standalone demo.

Open application Curriculum alignment

Teaching Focus

Teacher notes

Use this as a systems/optimization companion to the TSP tool.
Connect total path length to efficiency and tradeoffs.
Keep expectations clear: this is an optimization model, not a direct biology simulator.

Learner tasks

Build a network from the same points using different search settings.
Compare total length between candidate solutions.
Explain how optimization criteria shape the resulting network.

Core Question

How can iterative search produce more efficient networks from the same set of points?

Scientific Virtues

Habits to practice

State clearly what the model demonstrates and what it does not claim about real biological systems.
Use repeated runs and comparisons as evidence instead of relying on a single striking outcome.
Treat model limitations as part of the explanation, not as an afterthought.

Continue the thread

Use the Scientific Virtues page to connect model use with evidence, skepticism, and revision.