Scenario Based Learning: Inquiry for a Digital Earth
Description:
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 has not yet being exploited for educational purposes. The objectives of this project are:
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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.
Organization:
Norfolk State University
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA)
Contact:
Principal Investigator: Waldo Rodriguez,
BESTLab/Chemistry, Norfolk State University, PO Box: 700 Park Avenue,
Norfolk, VA 23504; Phone: (757) 823-2381; Fax: (757) 823-9054;
E-mail: waldo@vigyan.nsu.edu
Co-Investigator: S. Raj Chaudhury, BESTLab/Chemistry, Norfolk
State University, PO Box: 700 Park Avenue, Norfolk, VA 23504; Phone:
(757) 823-2241; Fax: (757) 823-9054; E-mail: raj@vigyan.nsu.edu
Education Level:
Undergraduate
Subject:
Earth System Science
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Remote Sensing
Program type:
Educational Technology
Date Added to teachearth.com:
5/1/00