Sim Map

Nick PuntEDUC 391X11/27/2007

Overview

Sim Map combines simulations with concept mapping tools to teach and assess subjects

Unlike a teach-then-test model, Sim Map uses a simulation and a guided discovery model alongside a concept map to merge learning and the assessment

Sim Map technology allows data to pass between simulation and concept map, providing faster assessment feedback and support for failure

The goal: deep learning

Starting Version

Left side: the simulation Tools: Query,

poke, add/remove, play/pause

Example: Queried Tree

Starting Version

Right side: the concept map Tools: Links,

linking labels, concepts, structure

Example: Concepts

Starting Version

Starting Version

Initially, the simulation is simple, showing only the major concepts and a few

relationships

Completed Version

As the user defines these concepts and relationships, additional details pop into

the simulation

Completed Version

Sometimes, these additions require the user to re-make their concept map

Completed Version

This continues throughout until the user completes the full concept map.

Different Teaching Methods Sim Map supports different style of

teaching and scaffolding within concept mapping

Examining Concept Maps as an Assessment Tool, Ruiz-Primo, M., 2004

Different Assessment Methods Other methods of using Sim Map for

assessment include Teachable Agents ‘taking a test’

Teachable Agents, www.teachableagents.org

Some Sample Topics

Biology Ecosystems Body

How stuff works Physics Machinery

Stories & Events Replacing simulation with text, pictures, and

video