## Modelling as Ways of Knowing *Discussion Session, AIMOS 2021* Facilitators: Eden T. Smith and Elliot Gould ### Session Description Scientific models are often positioned as representations of a specific target system. However, within the philosophy of scientific practices, studies have demonstrated that modelling is also an activity that contributes to our ways of generating knowledge. In this context, models are understood as ‘epistemic activities’ - activities that build and use models as tools to contribute to the production and evaluation of research claims. Can viewing modelling as an epistemic activity help highlight aspects of modelling practices that need to be considered within metaresearch studies of scientific practices? The session will include: - A short intro to philosophy on modelling as an epistemic activity - A short example of how account of modelling as epistemic activities can be useful in Ecology - An open discussion on ways that this example highlights aspects of modelling that need closer attention within metaresearch studies of scientific practices For a recording of this session, slides, and associated resources, see the associated reading set on [Models as Epistemic Activities](https://osf.io/4qvjr/)