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SpaceStation©—Computer Simulation Tool Demonstrating Biological Systems
Author(s) -
Pitts Marvin J.,
Davis Denny C.
Publication year - 1996
Publication title -
journal of engineering education
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.896
H-Index - 108
eISSN - 2168-9830
pISSN - 1069-4730
DOI - 10.1002/j.2168-9830.1996.tb00232.x
Subject(s) - crew , fish <actinopterygii> , computer science , simulation , psychology , medical education , mathematics education , engineering , engineering management , aeronautics , medicine , fishery , biology
Abstract A computer‐based SpaceStation© simulation program written to introduce first‐year college students to concepts in biological systems engineering was tested in two freshman engineering courses. The program modeled the interactions among a human crew, fish, microbes, and plants in a closed environment with fixed amounts of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and water. Students were asked to rebalance the system after a significant percentage of the crew left or entered the station. The experience gained through working with the simulation helped the students discuss interactions within the system. The simulation and related discussion about the project were well‐received by students. Presentations made by the students demonstrated creative involvement, awareness of interactions in biological systems, and increased awareness of the profession. The simulation developed only introductory levels of design skill in the students.