Modeling of the Digestive Modeling of the Digestive SystemSystem

Lauren Shipp and Megan Davis

ADVISOR: Mel Joesten

Project BackgroundProject Background

Design model for VSVS (Vanderbilt Students Volunteer for Science)

Physical model and visual aid to teach the functions and anatomy of digestive system

Classroom friendly and flexible to wide range of ages

Physical ModelPhysical Model

Durable/ kid-friendlyInteresting and hands-onAccurate representationTransportableFlexible to wide range of audiences

Visual AidsVisual Aids

Descriptive and accurateColor-codedPertinent informationEasy to understandInteresting and easy for kids to read

Interactive TeachingInteractive Teaching

Matching game for younger childrenVelcro interactive visual aidModels and visual aids can involve whole

classroom

Past and Current WorkPast and Current Work

Physical model with working valves and flow dynamics

Visual aids for different age groupsHands-on activities to involve the entire

class

Future WorkFuture Work

Test in 3rd/4th grade classroom as well as 7th/ 8th grade level in next week

Use feedback to improve model and visual aids Design lesson plan to go with model Put finishing touches on model Maybe (if time permits) design computer program

or website for digestive system learning

Engineering the ModelEngineering the Model

Materials selectionsFlow dynamicsSize ratiosFunctionality/ valvesDurabilitytransportability

Product CostProduct Cost

Physical model 125$Visual aids 20$Total project costs 250$Difference due to mishaps and trial and

error of materials

Existing Product MarketExisting Product Market

Models available now range from 500$ to over 1000$

Models could be used in classrooms nation-wide from age ranges 3rd through high school

High demand for low-cost helpful models Most models now are too expensive for teachers to

afford and not flexible for different ages This product has definite market potential

Model DemonstrationModel Demonstration

Physical model demonstration of digestion