A100: Introduction to the Solar System

1st Summer Session 1998

Section: 2348
M-R: 9:00 - 11:00
SB Room 230

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Create a Solar System Using Virtual Reality

The Department of Astronomy and the Department of Instructional Systems Technology are combining their resources to offer a special section of A100 this summer. This course will provide you with the unique opportunity of being able to use VIRTUAL REALITY to build and explore our SOLAR SYSTEM.

Course Description

In this section of A100 you will learn about the solar system as you work in small groups to construct projects in a technology rich learning environment. These projects will be developed using virtual reality software and will require that you incorporate facts, concepts, and principles associated with astronomy in general and the solar system in particular. The "virtual worlds" that you build will be posted on the World Wide Web and viewed in IU's new CAVE (a walk-in virtual environment). Although, there will be a final exam, content will be mastered in the context of building virtual worlds and through group discussions—not class lectures!

Who Can Take the Course?

This course is designed for students interested in using state-of-the-art computer technology (including VR software) to learn about the solar system. You are not expected to know a programming language or have a World Wide Web page; however, you must be confident with using computers and, more importantly, have a willingness to explore, and have fun while learning.

If you want more information concerning this course please contact

Mike Barnett

Education Building, Room 2217
856-7943
gmbarnet@indiana.edu
http://www.astro.indiana.edu/~barnett

 

 

Sasha A. Barab

Education Building, Room 2232
856-8462
sbarab@indiana.edu
http://education.indiana.edu/~sbarab

Class web site: http://inkido.indiana.edu/a100/a100home.html