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Introduce children to
computer simulations with Professor Ziggy's Super
Simulation System targeted at ages seven and older.
A core application of computer technology, simulations will
increasingly
grow in importance as a tool to better understand and manage our world,
so it's essential that they are understood by the people who will be
using them. PZSSS
is a custom built physical simulation engine, presenting a three
dimensional physical world with a series of diverse
systems constructed from virtual building blocks. Missions charge the
student with investigating these systems based on physical forces, and
in the process they acquire a thorough appreciation for the principles,
uses and limitations of simluations.
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Hurl
balls at bricks...
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...and
bring the castle
crumbling down.
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Key features :
- Simplicity
: focussed on running the simulations. Children don't need a high
computer literacy to use PZSSS. Teachers don't need a high computer
literacy to help them!
- Real-world
Applicability : the simulations are constructed around
physical problems that relate to the child's own experience-based
understanding of the real world. Simple experiments in the classroom
can prove the validity of the simulation software.
- Diverse
Investigations : covers a range of simulation
applications,
such as machine efficiency and testing systems for safety. These
simulation experiences provide a strong foundation to classroom
discussion on what simulations are and how they are useful.
- Full
3D
World
: greatly improves the real-world relevance of the software experience.
The child has full control over the camera, differentiating what they
see from passive cartoon to active system.
- Emphasis
on Understanding Simulations : part of understanding
simulations
is knowing that they aren't always true to life. Simulations such as
biological ecosystems cannot be evaluated and proven in class. If such
a simulation shows increasing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere
increases wheat growth, the child has no way of knowing if the
simulation is true to life or not. As PZSSS's physical simulations can
be related to the child's experiences, the authenticity of the
simulation
can be proven.
- Optimized
engine
: developed to run on old, low-specification PCs. Any computer newer
than 10 years old should run PZSSS flawlessly. Older computers can
still
run PZSSS if a little slowly.
- Fun
Experience
: a healthy mix of humour, with the character led
interface and
printable worksheets, keeps children engaged, creating an ICT task they
are happy to engage in.
example
Worksheet page
Download the trial
version now, offering a selection of activities.
You can buy a license keycode from the store.
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