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The model allows the user to select a quantity of different denominations of coins in order to pay a specified total amount. The model has the potential to be used my many different classes of users. Children who are just starting to learn about money can use it to learn how to give change. By interacting with the model they can recognise the need to select the largest coins first. Such learners would not be aware that they were using the greedy algorithm. In contrast the model could also be used by people learning the mathematics of greedy algorithms, who already know how to give change, but can use their experiences of relating to these real world artefacts to learn complex mathematical concepts.
Values to pay can be contrived to allow the user to learn interesting things about the behaviour of the algorithm. Also by limiting the coin supply of certain denominations or changing the denominations themselves (e.g. to pre-decimal currency, or American currency) users can investigate the impact of the particular denominations in making the change.
The model also allows the extension to learn about other greedy algorithms such as the “Knapsack problem.