This article analyses mathematical modelling from several different perspectives and contrasts modelling with problem solving. Then it describes the ways in which modelling, applications, and problem solving are approached in several Latin American countries. It further describes workshops for secondary schools and for university teachers in which participants engaged in interdisciplinary modelling activities, and the impact these workshops had on modifying their teaching. Based on the experience of these workshops, recommendations are made with respect to promoting modelling in the curricula.