Abstract: The Visual Geophysical Exploration Environment (VGEE) combines new pedagogical
models with advances in technology and the geosciences to create an
inquiry-based geoscience learning environment for undergraduates using
authentic scientific tools and practices. The main components of the VGEE are a
set of tools specially designed to help learners visualize complex,
multi-dimensional geophysical ... phenomena and connect those visualizations to
fundamental physical principles.

The VGEE tools include:

- A 5D visualization environment that enables learners to construct realistic
3D
graphics and animations of what is occurring within a dataset. (Note that 5D
refers to the three spatial dimensions plus time and multiple variables)

- Geophysical datasets of observed and modeled data used within the
visualization
environment; the initial dataset is related to the El Niño Southern Oscillation
(ENSO)


- A set of concept models to illustrate fundamental geophysical principles in
idealized contexts

- A set of probes used to investigate the role of fundamental principles within
learner-created visualizations

In addition, the VGEE has resources to guide and aid learners in the inquiry
process. These resources include:

- A Learner Guide for exploring El Niño and ENSO. The activities are designed
to be used during the lab sessions of introductory geoscience courses. Note
that the Learner Guide has an online system for submitting the results of
learner investigations

- A Teacher Guide for exploring El Niño and ENSO. Note that this area is
restricted and requires a password; if you are an instructor or visitor, please
email us, vgee@dlese.org, to obtain a password

- An online encyclopedia of resources that provide background information for
the study of El Niño and ENSO

http://www.dpc.ucar.edu/vgee/intro.htm