Interactive visualization for geoscience education : Java-based instructional tools for introductory geology /
Two web-based interactive visualization tools were developed to support problem-based learning in tertiary introductory geoscience classes. The presented tools were designed using the Java[TM] programming language, following guidelines for good educational instruction design. They represent two diff...
| Main Author: | |
|---|---|
| Format: | Thesis eBook |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
[Place of publication not identified] :
[publisher not identified] ;
2001.
|
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | Link to OAKTrust copy |
| Summary: | Two web-based interactive visualization tools were developed to support problem-based learning in tertiary introductory geoscience classes. The presented tools were designed using the Java[TM] programming language, following guidelines for good educational instruction design. They represent two different examples of how object-oriented programming can be used to enhance the quality of Internet-based instructional material. The Geomovie Java applet is an interactive animation template that allows students to visualize the geophysical seismic plane wave concept. Two-dimensional visualization of three-dimensional geological and geophysical concepts can improve the spatial ability of learners. The animated spatial path of the seismic plane wave is controlled by the learner-defined parameters. Student experimentation of the influence of the parameters on the characteristics of seismic waves results in active learning. This applet has been developed as a template, and can be used for development of other interactive, animated, two-dimensional concept demonstrations. The Geochart application has been developed as an interactive graphing tool for on-line investigation. The applet connects a database of geochemical variables for the South Platte River water quality collected during the National Water Quality Program, and allows students to plot variables in XY coordinates, encouraging inquiry-based learning. Different plotting options are available. The system is developed using Java applet/servlet communication and allows future extension to other databases and systems. |
|---|---|
| Item Description: | "Major subject: Geology". Vita. |
| Physical Description: | vii, 56 leaves : illustrations ; 28 cm. + 1 computer disk (3¹/₂in.) Also available online. Issued also on microfiche from Lange Micrographics. |
| Bibliography: | Includes bibliographical references (leaves 37-39). |