Special : Education Workshop

Abs # 60002: Learning Biology Through Computer Simulations and Animations

Presenter:	White, Alan R, alan.white@ndsu.nodak.edu
Authors	White, Alan R (A) (D)  McClean, Phillip E (B) (D)  Slator, Brian M (C) (D)
Affiliations:	(A): Department of Biological Sciences (B): Department of Plant Sciences (C): Department of Computer Science (D): North Dakota State University
Web Site:	http://vcell.ndsu.edu

The Virtual Cell (http://vcell.ndsu.edu) is a virtual, multi user educational world where students navigate among cellular objects and processes and practice being cell biologists in a role based, goal oriented environment. Working individually or with others, students learn fundamental concepts of cell biology and strategies for problem solving through their experiences in the exploratory environment. This pedagogical approach gives students an authentic experience that includes elements of experimental design and decision making, while introducing them to discipline content. By practical applications of the scientific method, students learn how to think, act, and react as cell biologists. All VCell modules address biology standards as outlined by the American Association for the Advancement of Science in its Project 2061 (http://www.project2061.org/). The VCell is a game-like program that requires a voyage into the interior of a cell, where experimental science meets virtual reality. The virtual cell contains 3D representations of all the components and organelles of a cell (nucleus, Golgi apparatus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, etc). The user "flies" among these organelles and uses virtual instruments to conduct experiments. Navigation is learner directed; there is no predetermined exploratory path. The student is also able to travel into linked 3D worlds that represent the interior of selected cellular organelles. Further experimentation inside each organelle allows the student to learn about their specific functions. As part of the Virtual Cell project, we are also developing high quality animations (http://vcell.ndsu.edu/animations) that depict core biological processes. Each animation will contain a detailed visualization and two levels of narration. The “First Look” level highlights the basic concepts of the process appropriate for introductory biology students. The “Detailed Look” level addresses the more advanced details in the animation typically found in a junior or senior level biology class. The web site under construction includes: 1) the two versions of the animation; 2) small-size stills that highlight the major steps in the process; 3) large-size stills with bubbles that alert the user to key features; and 4) a teacher guide that illustrates how these can be used by the student and teacher. The Virtual Cell project is supported by US DoEd FIPSE grants P116B000734 and P116B030120, NSF EIA-0086142 and a software grant from AliasWave Front.