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Bifocal modeling: mixing real and virtual labs for advanced science learning

Published: 12 June 2012 Publication History

Abstract

In this paper, we describe a set of user studies within the Bifocal Modeling (BM) framework. BM juxtaposes physical and computer models using sensor-based and computer modeling technologies, highlighting the discrepancies between ideal and real systems. When creating bifocal models, students build both a physical model with sensors of a given scientific phenomenon, and a computer model of the same phenomenon, connecting the two in real time with a special hardware interface. In this paper, we describe four formats for using BM in the classroom, as well as its affordances and characteristics.

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  1. Bifocal modeling: mixing real and virtual labs for advanced science learning

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    cover image ACM Other conferences
    IDC '12: Proceedings of the 11th International Conference on Interaction Design and Children
    June 2012
    399 pages
    ISBN:9781450310079
    DOI:10.1145/2307096

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    • didactalab: didactalab
    • IMIS: Institut für Multimediale und Interaktive Systeme

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    Association for Computing Machinery

    New York, NY, United States

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    Published: 12 June 2012

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    Author Tags

    1. computer modeling
    2. constructivism
    3. physical computing
    4. sensing

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    • IMIS

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    • (2021)Probeware for the Modern Era: IoT Dataflow System Design for Secondary ClassroomsIEEE Transactions on Learning Technologies10.1109/TLT.2021.306104014:2(226-237)Online publication date: 1-Apr-2021
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