- While text based
media can provide a wealth of information, retention of data and facts
is significantly limited. In contrast, a graphical representation
allows us to absorb billions of bits of data instantly, e.g. maps,
images, photographs. Therefore multi-dimensional graphical representations
will be the only method to fully tap the vast amounts of data being
gathered. Although multi-dimensional graphical virtual worlds have
being used for many applications, it is not yet being exploited for
educational purposes. The objectives of this project are:
- Develop and
test scenarios that utilize resources that will be available via Digital
Earth. How will the Digital Earth network facilitate the goals of
the individuals involved in a scenario? How will individuals use the
available data?
- Investigate
whether multi-dimensional graphical virtual worlds and the scenario
based learning strategy provide an effective learning environment.
What would they learn? Are these worlds more appealing? What are the
design criteria for these scenarios to be effective learning environments?
- Produce a low-resolution
3-D Earth with geo-referenced data, which could be accessible by high
end desktop machines. Could high end desktop machines maximize the
use of Digital Earth resources?
- Involve individuals
of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented in Earth science
in the creation and usage of Digital Earth Resources.
- First, a three
dimensional low resolution Earth elevation map that could run on high
end yet affordable desktop machines will be created. Second, atmospheric
science data, i.e., ozone, water vapor, sea surface temperature, precipitation,
surface temperature, will be added to this Earth elevation map. Third,
four scenarios will be played out with undergraduate students to test
their ability to learn and make high order decisions based on the
knowledge acquired with these multi-dimensional virtual world scenarios.
|
|
| Waldo
Rodrigues
BESTLab/Chemistry,
Norfolk State University
700 Park Avenue,
Norfolk, VA 23504
Phone: (757)823-2381
waldo@vigyan.nsu.edu
| Raj
Chaudhury,
BESTLab/Chemistry
Norfolk State University
700 Park Avenue,
Norfolk, VA 23504
Phone: (757)823-9054
raj@vigyan.nsu.edu
|