Projects - SIMS: Simulations & Modeling in Science

Description
The science education community is at a critical point with regard to the development of curricula that use visualization tools.

Although these tools have not seen widespread use, they possess much potential for improving learning. Such tools provide a unique benefit in that they can make explicit information embedded in traditional science representations and provide a visual representation of imperceptible objects.

With such tools, students learn science by viewing simulations side-by-side with graphical outputs and diagrams. This is in stark contrast to traditional lecture formats that almost exclusively rely on verbal explanations of concepts.

In the SIMS project, we implement computer-based learning environments for teaching chemistry. To that end, we develop and assess Connected Chemistry simulations, programmed in the NetLogo modeling environment to support student visualization of molecular events.

Sample Work

	Equilibrium Simulation Simulation Worksheet (PDF)
	Classifying Matter Simulation Simulation Worksheet (PDF)