Poster Presentation/Demo Abstract
Software Tools for Academics and Researchers (STAR) is a suite of research tools created to enhance learning for MIT students and others. Each of the seven STAR tools was built in response to a pedagogical need expressed by an MIT faculty member, but all STAR tools are freely available to anyone interested in using them in his or her own research or teaching.
Statement of the problem or issue
The STAR program seeks to address the question “What is the biggest problem you face in bringing your research into the classroom?” We collaborate with subject matter experts in producing tools that emphasize key research concepts and make them accessible to students.
Description of activity, project, solution, and outcome
Building on the work of the TEALSim initiative in the Physics department, the STAR team created visualization tools that run on any platform and are easily downloaded and installed. Heavily used in several undergraduate MIT courses as well as in sister institutions, the STAR tools also enjoys a significant popularity among unaffiliated users who take advantage of these free tools for self education and use in classroom teaching.
Members of the STAR team will demonstrate the tools from the STAR suite, highlighting best practices for use in the classroom. They will also be available to answer questions and talk with interested visitors.
Importance or relevance to other faculty, staff, students, departments, and programs
It is important that faculty and research staff throughout the institute are aware of the STAR tools set, and the potential to use STAR tools in teaching and learning in various disciplines.
The STAR toolset model can also be modified and deployed to other disciplines. The issues that are addressed and resolved through STAR tools are pertinent to many areas in the STEM arena.
Lourdes Aleman, OEIT
Ivan Ceraj, OEIT
(Presented at MIT Educational Technology Fair 2009)
Topic Area(s)
4. Incorporating visualizations and simulations to deepen student understanding
5. Open educational tools and resources