software resources for science and technology education
Junior Simulation Insight -
Running ready-built simulations to study relationships between variables
Junior Simulation Insight comes with 35 ready-to-use models that allow pupils to explore properties and predict outcomes within a virtual environment. The pupil inputs parameters (using slider bars and digit windows that are linked to the model) and observes their effects whilst animated graphics bring the models to life. Topics covered include:
Junior Simulation Insight comes with 35 ready-
Heating and Cooling
Simple Circuits
Electromagnetism
Human energy
Predator-Prey
Energy Costs
Orbits and Space
Gravity
Water Cycle... and more
Analysis of data resulting from the simulations
Data can be collected from any simulation model and displayed for analysis in three ways: in graphs, bar charts and tables.
Data can be collected from any simulation model and displayed for analysis in three ways: in graphs, bar charts and tables.
Graphs - for viewing the data as a series of points or lines on a YX graph
Tables - for looking at every single item of recorded data in the traditional format of columns and rows. This option has all the main features of a spreadsheet
Charts - for viewing a set of data as a series of horizontal or vertical bars for quick comparison
Modifying existing simulations
At the heart of any simulation program is a mathematical model, which contains all the rules and formulae governing the variables, as well as, performing all necessary calculations on them. Uniquely, Simulation Insight offers complete access to the model, allowing it to be modified easily - and the language employed for the modifications is English (just simple sentences).
To see how a model is built, you can view the simulation in three client windows as a Scene (the pictorial display with animated graphics, input controls and dials), as a Model (showing the variables, rules and constants that make the model work), and as a Script (displaying the rules).
Building new models
The software enables anyone to build their own simulation with customised graphics, animations and sound effects (a gallery of graphics and a folder of sound WAVs is supplied with Simulation Insight).
The software enables anyone to build their own simulation with customised graphics, animations and sound effects (a gallery of graphics and a folder of sound WAVs is supplied with Simulation Insight).
Sharing and saving work
Any of the client windows - Scene, Model, Script, Graph, Chart, Table - can be saved individually as .EMF files or printed separately (and scaled to fit any paper size). The whole project including all client windows can also be saved as a Simulation Insight compatible files (a .ISS).
Any of the client windows -
Junior Simulation Insight has been specially designed with younger pupils in mind, offering a similar range of simulation functions and graph windows to Simulation Insight, but with a simplified set of analysing tools and a library of ready-built simulations suited to the primary school curriculum. Junior Simulation Insight cuts across traditional subject boundaries, helping illuminate the connections between Science, Mathematics, Geography and other subject areas.
Pupils are able to capture, measure and investigate the behaviour of any model using graphing and charting options, as well as, varying the inputs of the simulations by applying a selection of on-screen switches, buttons, sliders, dials and charts. Ready-made animated simulations are supplied, ready to investigate and explore.
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