veski inspiring students lesson 6: computer simulation

Overview 

In this video Dr Aaron School from Deakin University discusses the concept of computer simulation, and how scientists use it to gain a greater understanding of the shape and function of nature’s molecules. He discusses how exploring natural materials could lead to greater discoveries.

He also discusses how computers are becoming an increasingly cheaper, more powerful tool that cannot be ignored by professionals. Computer simulation reproduces the behaviour of natural and man-made systems to help us understand, predict, and communicate.

This video is relevant for middle to senior secondary school students with basic science knowledge.

The activities provided with this resource can be used across 1 to 2 lessons including watching the video, having a discussion about the content of the video, and completing the worksheet and other activities.  

Key objectives

• Understand what computer simulation is.
• Be able to list some examples of what scientists are trying to do with computer simulation.

Background information

• Video (1 minutes 20 seconds)
• Biography: Dr Aaron School
• Institute of Frontier Materials
• Victorian Life Sciences Computational Inititative
• Glossary of key terms
• Lesson guide

Activities

• Activity 1: Discussion questions
• Activity 2: Additional video and questions
• Activity 3: Additional video
• Activity 4: Essay topic

Categories

computer simulation, helix, molecules, nature