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…

Modern education technologies are destined to reflect the realities of a modern digital age. The juxtaposition of real and synthetic (computer-generated) worlds as well as a greater emphasis on visual dimension are especially important characteristics that have to be taken into account in learning and teaching. We describe the ways in which an…

The emergence of technology has led to numerous changes in mathematical and statistical teaching and learning which has improved the quality of instruction and teacher/student interactions. The teaching of statistics, for example, has shifted from mathematical calculations to higher level cognitive abilities such as reasoning, interpretation, and…

A small class of functions is described that easily lend themselves to two-dimensional and three-dimensional visualizations at the basic calculus level. The intended audience is those educators involved in the instruction of elementary calculus. This note is an educational piece that begins with the question: "What happens if a function defined on…

Contextualised and ubiquitous learning are relatively new research areas that combine the latest developments in ubiquitous and context aware computing with educational approaches in order to provide structure to more situated and context aware learning. The majority of recent activities in contextualised and ubiquitous learning focus on mobile…

Argues that there is a whole class of physiological topics that are best taught using dynamic diagrams, a series of diagrams generated through simple animations and based on user-provided inputs. Uses the theory of neural generation as an example. (DDR)

Describes courses designed to complement mainstream technical graphics courses in architectural and mechanical graphics. Vocational track students and precollege students mainly benefit from these courses. Contains 23 references. (DDR)

Describes some developmental changes in children's free creations with pattern blocks and demonstrates how to build on this natural interest to teach Logo programing. (PK)

Describes the various phases of software development and shows how it can be used in an engineering graphics course. Includes demonstration exercises, practice exercises, code development and software as they have been used at Clemson University. (CW)