Our Mission

To provide resources for and training in the use of modeling and visualization tools for inquiry based instruction in science and mathematics

Teacher Workshops

MVHS is collaborating with the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center to provide computational science training to Pittsburgh area teachers through the Computation and Science for Teachers (CAST) project. See Computational Resources for Teachers for a collection of modeling and visualization activities for science and math classes.

MVHS in the News

An article describing lessons learned through 17 years of experience helping teachers learn to use computer models and simulations in their classrooms was published in the Journal of Computational Science Education. The article, Preparing Teachers to Infuse Computational Science into their Classroom Instruction, synthesizes the work done by MVHS in collaboration with the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center and the Math and Science Collaborative of Southwestern Pennsylvania.

An article describing the advantages of using systems dynamics models in high school physics classes to help students develop conceptual physics understanding was published in the September 2011 issue of The Physics Teacher. In the article, Building Conceptual Physics Understanding, Charlotte Trout, the lead author, shares the insights she gained through using computer models with her students at Williamsport High School in Washington County, Maryland.

Computer simulations from Maryland Virtual High School were recently featured in the Future Schools section of Scholastic Administrator magazine. Charlotte Trout, science specialist in Washington County, Maryland, described how she used computer simulations with her students to extend their "wet" lab experiments. Through the use of simulations, students are able to analyze data and graphs, test hypotheses, and critically evaluate the reliability of a model.

Featured Student Projects

 

  

The 2011 Computational Science Teacher Leader Award

Manorama Talaiver, Director of the Institute for Teaching through Technology and Innovative Practices, was chosen as a recipient of the 2011 Computational Science Teacher Leader Award for her leadership in transforming teaching and learning in rural school districts in south-central Virginia via computational thinking tools. Her dedication to professional development in STEM areas has had a positive impact on both teachers and students, helping to prepare students for 21st century STEM careers.

Michael White, Assistant Director at the Joint Education Facilities, Inc. in Washington D.C., was selected as a recipient of the 2011 Computational Science Teacher Leader Award for his work providing year-round training, coaching, and mentoring for students in the areas of high performance computing and robotics. His work over the past ten years has helped youth discover their interest and capabilities in STEM-area fields. His son, Darren, was present to accept the award.

The awards were presented at the SC11 Education Program in Seattle on November, 15, 2011.

Featured Computational Science Activity

Modeling Oscillatory Systems, a project designed by MVHS teachers Don Higdon, Bud Rorison, Allen Skinner and Charlotte Trout, was recently referenced in the textbook, Introduction to Computational Science, written by Angela B. and George W. Shiflet.