DE Oracle @ UMUC

Environmental Management Simulations

CSI Staff

Staff Writer

Center for Support of Instruction

Category: » University-showcase » Multimedia-learning-objects

In the Graduate School's continuing efforts to integrate multimedia components in online classes, the Environmental Management department is getting rave reviews from students about three simulations that debuted in ENVM 644 and 649 in spring 2002. Built entirely in Macromedia Flash, a software tool that creates animations, these simulations depict time-lapsed environmental phenomenons. In order to view these simulations, all students need is the current version of Macromedia Flash Player, a free downloadable plug-in. A non-interactive version of this simulation is available for students who have technical problems with Flash or who rely on a screen-reader.

Following the old adage that a picture is worth a thousand words, Bob Beauchamp, Environmental Management Program Director, identified three intricate processes that were difficult for students to visualize. Armed with some drawings, Bob approached Heloisa Siffert to discuss the feasibility of bringing life to his drawings. Heloisa, who has an extensive background in video production, recommended partnering with The Center for the Virtual University (CVU) because of the complex nature of the project. The CVU, in cooperation with other ODELL units, designs and develops a variety of media programs to support academic and multimedia initiatives at UMUC.

In fall 2001, the CVU signed on and put together a team comprised of Carrie Gahagan, multimedia producer, Andy Joyce, multimedia graphic artist, Justus Baumgartner, Web multimedia specialist, Heloisa, and Bob. Using Bob's preliminary drawings and content as a jumping off point, and the team met over a period of four months to develop the three simulations. Each image in the simulations is an original drawing brought to life through animation. According to Bob, the talented and innovative CVU staff were also extremely supportive and helpful throughout the process.

Theo Stone, assistant provost and director of the CVU, cites the ENVM simulations as prime examples of high-threshold technology. By that he means a complex, time- and resource-intensive project employing highly sophisticated technology, as well as a huge commitment on the part of the faculty member. The net result of this combined effort, however, is a layer of media-richness unparalleled in most online classes.

In the future, Bob envisions new simulations further enhanced by manipulated values (creating a more interactive environment for students) and audio. Due to the labor-intensive nature of creating simulations, Bob's biggest challenge is in securing sufficient funding for these projects.

Environmental Simulations

To view the interative Flash simulations, you need a copy of the Macromedia Flash Player installed on your computer (test computer for Flash software).   Use the non-interactive HTML version if you would like to print the simulation.  

• Simulation 1 - Landfill Progression Simulation (Flash | HTML)
• Simulation 2 - Landfill Construction Simulation (Flash | HTML)
• Simulation 3 - Theoretical Degradation Curves for Chemical Activity in a Landfill (Flash | HTML)
• Simulation 4 - Phytoremediation (Flash | HTML)