Distributed interactive learning environment

Abstract

We present strategies and approaches used to implement a synthetic learning environment which includes networking, distributed interactive simulation, physically-based modeling, computational steering, and virtual reality for learning abstract scientific concepts. The resulting technology is a testbed that reflects the benefits of a schoolhouse for training and education, especially for learning scientific abstract concepts. Students are allowed to interact with one another and engage in realistic collaborative exercises. Our network architecture and protocol allow the interactive networked environment to be much more scalable. Our innovative use of computational steering and interactive visualization allows students to visualize and manipulate the physical process, and understand the abstract concept much easier. We use fluid dynamics as a case study to demonstrate this learning environment.