ESTEEM

Overview

This Excel worksheet implements an SEAIHRD model for Covid-19 (Susceptible, Exposed, Asymptomatic infective, symptomatic Infective, Hospitalized infective, Recovered, Deceased). The model itself is contained in three sheets that work quietly in the background. Interaction between user and model code is done through a MUI (model-user-interface) that appears in the top sheet of the workbook. This structure creates a "sandbox" environment where students can follow scripted instructions or do their own exploration. In the MUI, the user defines an experiment consisting of one to three scenarios by entering parameter values in cells highlighted in yellow; for example, there is a parameter that represents physical distancing and a parameter that represents the extent of testing. Key results are presented in cells highlighted in blue and in two graphs. The workbook is accompanied by a document with general directions and a document that describes 7 predesigned experiments with questions. The parameters for these experiments appear in the second sheet of the workbook so that they can be copied and pasted into the MUI. The predesigned experiments explore specific issues: physical distancing, blunting the surge, asymptomatic fraction, testing rate, doubling time, herd immunity, and contact tracing. The questions focus on interpreting results, drawing conclusions, and testing the accuracy of statements that have been made by government officials and public health experts.

Citation