SAM, Simulation And Multimedia

Abstract

In this paper we will present the SAM architecture in which a set of existing and SAM developed tools are offered to create and use advanced simulation-based learning environments. The aim of the SAM project is to specify and develop a modelling, authoring and learning framework based on state-of-the-art software tools. The framework will be completed with specific tools supporting the learner, the author and the modeller. An architecture based on using together a number of existing and specially developed tools has to deal with both a technical and a conceptual integration. SAM will do so by supporting the author in the creation of so-called Instructional Simulation Objects (ISO). ISOs are building blocks that allow for different levels of freedom ranging from fully system guided task exercises to learner controlled experiments. In this way the author can offer the right level of support to the learner at the appropriate time. With the help of a graphical editor the author writes a script both controlling SAM designed functions, e.g. monitoring or exchange of data, and external supplied functions, e.g. running a simulation model or a courseware. To the learner SAM will supply additional tools such as e.g. a Multimedia Notebook. SAM is developed in parallel on 2 platforms, i.e. on 80x86 PCs under Windows 3 and on Macintoshes under System 7. SAM will be evaluated by constructing and using simulations in two different domains: socio-economic and engineering. The model in the socio-economic domain describes the impact of climatic change on the socio-economic and socio-ecological systems of small island states in the Wider Caribbean. The engineering model is a simulation of a spacecraft equipment rack cooling system with a number of experiments in an onboard rack.