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Developed by
Developing Educational Leadership in
Computational Science |
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Modeling the Ogallala Aquifer on the Texas High Plains
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Additional Terms from Edna Gentry Listed below is a list of technology termonology specifically related to modeling. These are from Edna Gentry. Active cell - In Excel, the active cell is the current cell, designated by the dark border. Assessment techniques - Techniques used by the teacher to assess whether or not the student understands the concept being evaluated. Cell - An Excel cell is one part of the grid, the intersection of a row and a column. Cellular Automata - A cellular automaton is a discrete dynamical system, this means the values change in regular increments. For example, time may increase in regular steps of 1. Space, time, and the states of the system are discrete. A Cellular Automata system is organized in a grid, making it easy to simulate using Excel, and requires a set of rules that will determine the state of each cell. Each cell can have any one of a finite number of states. The rule is employed to determine the state of a cell. That is, the state a cell at a given time depends only on its own state one time step previously, and the states of its neighbors at the previous time step. All cells on the grid are updated synchronously. Computational algorithm - The set of equations or rules that govern the computational output. Computational model - The computational model is the translation of the mathematical model to the computer, using a software such as Excel, Stella, or Mathematica. Data - Information provided or obtained for use in the model. Grid - A Grid is made up of columns and rows. Input variable - Variables whose values are input at the beginning of the execution of a model. Iterations - A means of looping through a set of rules. For example, if the model requires that a certain set of actions take place ten times, then this would constitute ten iterations or loops. LaPlace Equation - Mathematical model - A set of rules and/or equations that will solve a problem. Module - In our terms, a module is a set of instructions, references, and resources that will be used to complete a unit of study. Output variable - The outcome when a model is executed. Peer review - In our terms, peer review will be used to evaluate and refine modules. When a module has been used by a teacher who is not the author of the module, a review of the module will be made with comments and recommendations. Revisions to the module can be made by the author to reflect the suggestions made in the peer review. Scientific Visualization - The idea of using computer-generated pictures to gain information and understanding from data and relationships. Spreadsheet - A spreadsheet is a type of software that allows calculations to
be made and charts and images made from the results of the calculations. |
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