Construction of heart models using simple air pumps

Heart models constructed with simple and inexpensive air pumps can be used to simulate blood circulation in our body. They can change the didactic approach commonly employed in the primary and secondary classroom for teaching this topic by providing hands-on activities for students. Such simulation activities can deepen students' understanding of the structure of the heart, dispel their misconceptions of the cardiac cycle, and foster their awareness of the importance of maintaining a healthy heart. Copyright © 2001 by the Institute of Biology.