Modeling of the Digestive System Lauren Shipp and Megan Davis ADVISOR: Mel Joesten

Project 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 Model Durable/ kid-friendly Interesting and hands-on Accurate representation Transportable Flexible to wide range of audiences

Visual Aids Descriptive and accurate Color-coded Pertinent information Easy to understand Interesting and easy for kids to read

Interactive Teaching Matching game for younger children Velcro interactive visual aid Models and visual aids can involve whole classroom

Past and Current Work Physical model with working valves and flow dynamics Visual aids for different age groups Hands-on activities to involve the entire class

Future Work Test in 3 rd /4 th grade classroom as well as 7 th / 8 th 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 Model Materials selections Flow dynamics Size ratios Functionality/ valves Durability transportability

Product Cost Physical model 125$ Visual aids 20$ Total project costs 250$ Difference due to mishaps and trial and error of materials

Existing Product Market Models available now range from 500$ to over 1000$ Models could be used in classrooms nation-wide from age ranges 3 rd 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 Demonstration Physical model demonstration of digestion