Modeling empowered by information and communication technologies

In this article, we describe our work with mathematical modeling (MM) at different educational levels and discuss how the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) empowered such work. Characteristics of two trends in research which have influenced our work are presented: one is a Brazilian perspective of MM, and the other is the use of ICTs in mathematics classrooms seen through the lens of the theoretical construct “humans-with-media”. We introduce some key questions regarding the notion of mathematical model and the phases of the modeling process that were paramount for us. Finally, we describe and analyze two experiences using modeling in different educational contexts, and present some evidence of the empowering role of ICTs in such contexts.