1. Designing Learner Interactions For
Agent Based Computational
Systems
Pratim Sengupta
Mind, Matter & Media Lab
Vanderbilt University – Peabody College
World IA Day, Nashville
Feb 9, 2013

2. Design Goal
To integrate agent-based modeling with K12 science education
Rather than teaching separate CS courses, we propose an
integrated approach where programming, modeling and learning
science co-occur
Focus on long-term development, not just in-the-moment
learning
This requires rethinking the design of programming languages
We have been designing VIMAP to address these issues
For a detailed discussion see Sengupta, P. et al.. (2013 / in press)
[LINK]; Sengupta, P. et al., (2012) {LINK}

3. UX Themes
Agent-based Computation
Phenomenological Interfaces
Presence & Immersion
Narratives
Learning vs. Development
Learners’ Regimes of Competence

4. Three Primary “Modes” of
Interaction with ViMAP
Visual Programming and modeling
Drag-and-drop interface for algorithm design
Dynamic highlighting to support algorithm visualization
Multiple, integrated microworlds to support design of
mathematical measures
Image computation
A version of ViMAP that focuses on media computation
ViMAP – Tangible
ViMAP integrated with sensors

9. Thank YOU!
To learn more:
Mind, Matter & media Lab
http://www.vanderbilt.edu/m3lab
ViMAP
http://www.visualprogramming.org
Research reported here is funded by NSF Early CAREER
Award # 1150230