Introductory Workshop (A)
Introduction to Computational Science
Modeling and Simulation in the Undergraduate Environment

This workshop is designed to introduce faculty to modeling principles and practices and the basics of computational science. Emphasis will be placed on the modeling process and the use of interactive simulations and model-building assistants. Participants will learn how to locate resources, how to assess the value of those resources, and how to adapt those resources to their classes. Faculty will have the opportunity to learn about moving existing materials supporting models and simulations to the web. You will return to your campus environment with a variety of models and supporting materials to directly incorporate new learning experiences for your students.

Graduates of this workshop are encouraged to enroll in the advanced workshop, which can be taken either immediately following the introductory workshop or during the following summer.

Selection Criteria:

• Teams will consist of 2 or 3 faculty from an institution of higher education.
• At least one member of the team must be assigned to teach at least one course in which modeling activities can be incorporated during the following academic year.
• The home institution must have the appropriate technological capabilities to allow for implementation of modeling in the classroom, including internet access and computer classroom or lab facilities.

Preference will be given to teams satisfying one or more of the following additional criteria:

• Teams involving at least one member from a college of education
• Teams addressing modeling for pre-service and in-service K-12 teachers, including college of education faculty
• Teams involving members from more than one discipline
• Teams working to include models and interactivity in the beginning (core) undergraduate curriculum, including community college faculty
• Teams demonstrating a strong plan to disseminate results back on their own campuses or working with other schools in their region
• Teams working with underrepresented groups in the sciences and mathematics

Applications for the Summer 2000 Workshop, to be held at Appalachian State University, are now being accepted.