Crispus Attucks students wowed by 3D science movies created by IU School of Informatics researchers
April 16, 2008
That well-worn Chinese proverb hasn’t lost any of its wisdom – “One picture is worth a thousand words”. It was never truer than when dozens of students from Crispus Attucks Middle School paid a visit to IUPUI and the School of Informatics.
The group of 80 or so IPS students and teachers gathered in the IT Building auditorium for a magically visual tour of the human body and its system functions. Armed (eyed!) with 3D glasses, the youngsters were awed by scenes of cells dividing; vivid descriptions of the circulatory, respiratory and nervous systems; the inner workings of the human body seen at the molecular level; and strong visual messages warning against the health-related dangers of smoking tobacco.
The visit also marked the beginning of a dialogue between Informatics faculty members and Crispus Attucks teachers about what type of instructional methods appeal most to students. The expected outcome of that dialogue is the design of custom curriculum modules to enhance the learning experience for science education.
“This visit allowed students and faculty the ability to experience a new paradigm in learning that engages students in a different manner than traditional training,” said Albert William, IUPUI Informatics research associate and the developer of much of the 3D content.
After viewing the 3D spectacle, several students declared that science was “easier to understand” when presented in such a visual manner. And, others seemed inspired by the showing to become animators themselves someday. While exiting the building, each student received a “goodie bag” presented by the School of Informatics.
“It is our sincere hope that in the not-too-distant future several of these students will join us here at IUPUI Informatics,” said Mathew Palakal, associate dean, graduate studies and research.
Click here for more information about 3D stereoscopic research. IPS offers more educational choices than any other Indiana school system.
