Challenging the Computational Metaphor: Implications for How We Think

This paper explores the role of the traditional computational metaphor in our thinking as computer scientists, its influence on epistemological styles, and its implications for our understanding of cognition. It proposes to replace the conventional metaphor--a sequence of steps--with the notion of a community of interacting entities, and examines the ramifications of such a shift on these various ways in which we think

Transforming High School Physics With Modeling And Computation

The Engage to Excel (PCAST) report, the National Research Council\u27s Framework for K-12 Science Education, and the Next Generation Science Standards all call for transforming the physics classroom into an environment that teaches students real scientific practices. This work describes the early stages of one such attempt to transform a high school physics classroom. Specifically, a series of model-building and computational modeling exercises were piloted in a ninth grade Physics First classroom. Student use of computation was assessed using a proctored programming assignment, where the students produced and discussed a computational model of a baseball in motion via a high-level programming environment (VPython). Student views on computation and its link to mechanics was assessed with a written essay and a series of think-aloud interviews. This pilot study shows computation\u27s ability for connecting scientific practice to the high school science classroom

CAREER: Framework for Integrating Embedded Sensors in Durability Analysis of FRP Composites in Civil Infrastructure

The CAREER proposal will develop a framework to characterize durability of composites in civil infrastructure by integrating fiber-optic embedded sensors with damage mechanics models and life prediction methods. To tackle this problem, a combined analytical and experimental methodology is proposed, as follows: 1) Integrate embedded sensors in composites fabrication by VARTM and filament winding; 2) Implement strain, temperature, moisture and chemical degradation fiber-optic sensors; 3) Evaluate the embedded sensor system with controlled damage; 4) Develop a damage mechanics model and life-prediction methodology for durability analysis based on interrogating senors; 5) Assess reliability of sensor data and scale to composite structures (bridge decks and pipe walls); and 6) Validate the durability methodology and synthesize into a health-monitoring protocol. The educational approach is two-fold encompassing student recruitment and advanced graduate education. First, and educational collaboration is being developed with an applied technology center at a high school in Maine. The objective is to introduce high school students to the engineering experience by collaborating with civil engineering juniors in a composite bridge design and fabrication project. Second, an advanced graduate course on composites in civil engineering will be developed