The Molecular Workbench (MW) software:
- Is a modeling tool for designing and conducting computational experiments across science.
- Provides an authoring system for instructional designers to create and publish model and simulation-based curriculum materials.
- Delivers an interactive learning environment that supports science inquiry
- Is free and open-source.
Google announced today that it will award $2.5 million to the Concord Consortium (a nonprofit educational research and development organization based in Concord, Massachusetts.). This grant will allow their award-winning Molecular Workbench software and curriculum ‘to scale to reach millions and will pave the way for groundbreaking, deeply digital curricula that serve as an innovative model for the “textbook of tomorrow.“‘
The grant from Google will enable students to use browser-based devices will be able to use Molecular Workbench to study the science of atoms and molecules by experimenting with sophisticated computational models and collect real-time data via probes and sensors. These activities will provide examples of next-generation, deeply digital curricula.
The Molecular Workbench is well worth a look. I played around with it for quite a while. The interface and software is still a little clunky, but should improve considerably with the extra funding. This is an interesting example of web-based, dynamic open content.
Dr. Tony Bates is the author of eleven books in the field of online learning and distance education. He has provided consulting services specializing in training in the planning and management of online learning and distance education, working with over 40 organizations in 25 countries. Tony is a Research Associate with Contact North | Contact Nord, Ontario’s Distance Education & Training Network.
