SIR-model as a tool to study destructive processes in new knowledge acquisition

The article describes an approach to the analysis of mastering new knowledge with the use of mathematical modeling of a learning situation. The proposed model is based on W. Kermack and A. McKendrick's SIR (susceptible–infected–recovered) model which was originally used to predict the spread of an epidemic to large closed populations in order to prevent the disastrous consequences of global infection. The modified SIR-model allows researchers to investigate a number of regularities that a cognitive process carried out in a closed small student community has. The model also aims at identifying the ways of behavior of such a dynamic system when working with excessive information can lead to cognitive overload and errors in solving learning tasks. The approach is implemented as a numerical and graphical experiment on the phase plane, which makes it possible to compose a holistic picture of the phenomenon and to analyze the conditions under which the system moves towards the state of stable equilibrium. The latter is equal to overcoming cognitive overwork by the doers.