Science Simulations at Work in the Real World
Applying scientific simulations for learning is not just for K-12 classrooms. In his May 2011 Ted Talk, scientist Drew Berry shows his scientifically accurate animations that help researchers see the unseeable processes within our own cells.
"I wondered whether we could use computer graphics to represent the molecular world. What would it look like? And that's how I really began." --Drew Berry
Traditional versus Computer Simulation Labs
One thing that students crave are lab experiences. The time and cost involved in preparing traditional lab experiences prevents many teachers from providing labs on a regular basis. Fortunately, the modern classroom is equipped with a variety of technology. Lab simulations provide visualizations of scientific phenomena invisible to the naked eye, such as molecular motion. These virtual experiments provide a safe learning environment where variables can be manipulated without fear of physical harm or reprimands after multiple failures. Schools would no longer have to keep an inventory of consumable supplies. While traditional lab experiments have hands-on appeal, there is research that supports the notion that computer simulations can improve content understanding and student engagement.