I've been thinking a little bit about "learning models", specifically like those plastic anatomy models used in medical school. Found [this paper](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0187893X1830003X?utm_source=pocket_mylist#bib0035) with this: [Gilbert (2004](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0187893X1830003X?utm_source=pocket_mylist#bib0035)) described four different categories of models: a consensus model—an accepted model, tested by scientists and socially agreed upon; a teaching model—a model used to help explain something; an expressed model—the personal expression of the students understanding of the phenomena in speech, actions or writing; and a mental model—the personal internal understanding of the phenomena. I haven't read the primary text yet (paywall!) but I really like the categorization and how it relates to how I personally learn.