Ray tracing is a computer graphics technique used to produce realistic visuals by physically simulating the behavior of light. Although this technique can be described straightforwardly, fully comprehending it might be challenging. It is typically taught in the classroom using the 2-D formats, such as paper or a blackboard. We propose using…

Thermodynamic processes are complex phenomena that can be understood as a set of successive stages. When treating processes, classical thermodynamics (and most particularly, the Gibbsian formulation, predominantly used in chemistry) only pays attention to initial and final states. However, reintroducing the notion of process is absolutely…

This article presents the design and evaluation of a tool for inspecting conceptual models of system behaviour. The basis for this research is the Garp framework for qualitative simulation. This framework includes modelling primitives, such as entities, quantities and causal dependencies, which are combined into model fragments and scenarios.…

A major strand of science and technology studies in recent decades has related to the social construction of technology (SCOT) movement, whose adherents maintain that technological systems are determined just as much by social forces as by technological ones. Taking this SCOT notion as a starting point, and putting a focus on the user, this paper…

It is the universal cry of parents the world over, driven mad by the persistent sight of their children investing hours and hours in mastering the many layers of a video game. To the parent, video games are the enemy, the nemesis of homework and learning. But the child sees something of value, something engaging enough to fill a weekend, to the…

This article presents an interview with Robert Taylor, a leading figure in educational computing. Among the topics covered are: (1) current developments in educational computing, (2) the changing role of teachers, (3) the resources computer technology will provide to social studies teachers, and (4) whether the probable future uses of computers…

This article provides a diverse collection of examples of computer use in elementary and secondary school social studies. Names and addresses are provided for contacting many of the projects. (JDH)

Virtual Reality (VR) is a computer-created sensory experience that allows a participant to believe and barely distinguish a "virtual" experience from a real one using computer graphics, sounds, and images to reproduce electronic versions of real-life situations. This digest describes how VR works and discusses applications of VR in…

Supercomputing is described in terms of computing power and abilities. The increase in availability of supercomputers for use in chemical calculations and modeling are reported. Efforts of the National Science Foundation and Cray Research are highlighted. (CW)

New developments in technology, irrespective of the fields. These have a potential role to play in the field of education and training, especially distance education, to transform it into an interactive paradigm. These can provide education beyond the boundaries of a nation and/or state making it accessible to learners at their own pace. These are…

At some point in their education, pre-engineering students will take physics and/or calculus. For many freshmen who aren't certain about their career paths, taking these courses is a litmus test to determine whether they have the aptitude or desire to pursue an engineering degree. Therein lies the challenge for many students in the U.S. Science,…

Presents an instructional system that integrates computer simulation and computer graphics for economic models presented as equation systems. Describes the Model Laboratory System, an instructional system, developed at the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse. (DB)

Describes a new software package for the Apple Macintosh computer which can be used to create elaborate simulation models in a fraction of the time usually required without using a programming language. Illustrates the use of the software which relates to water usage. (TW)

Reports on a comparison of computer instruction at Japanese and American universities and colleges. Discusses hardware, education of students, computer graphics, and cooperative efforts. States that computer hardware in Japan is of high quality, abundant, and inexpensively accessed, and in America there is a stronger, direct instructional…

Intended for journalism school instructors and administrators as they make decisions about purchasing computers to help teach graphics and typology, this guide discusses seven areas of weakness in journalism curricula and ways in which schools should prepare themselves for new technologies. The introduction first discusses WYSIWYG--"what you see…