Full Idea
The 'received view' of models is that they are Tarskian formal axiomatic calculi interpreted by meta-mathematical models. The 'semantic' view of models gives equal importance to their representational capacity.
Gist of Idea
In the 'received view' models are formal; the 'semantic view' emphasises representation
Source
report of Demetris Portides (Models [2008], 'background') by PG - Db (ideas)
Book Reference
'Routledge Companion to Philosophy of Science', ed/tr. Psillos,S/Curd,M [Routledge 2010], p.386
A Reaction
The Tarskian view is the one covered in my section on Model Theory. Portides favours the semantic account, and I am with him all the way. Should models primarily integrate with formal systems, or with the world? Your choice...