cgCentral: A Course Simulation Application Built with Adobe AIR
Summary: Attendees will learn the rationale for selecting Adobe AIR to create similar applications to assist with course management, how the technology was employed for this particular project, and usability and assessment results from field testing the application in the classroom.
Description:
This presentation will detail the results of the cgCentral project that was funded through a 2008 Digital Content Development Grant.
CGT 411 is a senior capstone course in which students simulate the complexities of real-world corporations and business environments related to applied computer graphics . Part of this simulation includes the student and faculty functions of generating, tracking, and maintaining large amounts of mock data including stock information, press releases, corporate and individual finances. Typically, these functions have been achieved through a variety of mechanisms including web sites, RSS feeds, forums, and conferencing applications. Due to size and complexity of information required for the function of this simulation, the use of the previously mentioned applications have proven to be inefficient and inadequate.
The authors have spent the last year developing a Rich Internet Application using the Adobe AIR technology that consolidates the functions of the multiple simulation mechanisms into a single, unified application. The RIA was subjected to usability and assessment testing to ensure that an effective application was built that acheived the goals of the project.
The presentation will detail the rationale for the project and decisions concerning the Adobe AIR technology, the development process itself, and the results of two rounds of user test data that was used to determine the efficiency and effectiveness of the cgCentral application.
CGT 411 is a senior capstone course in which students simulate the complexities of real-world corporations and business environments related to applied computer graphics . Part of this simulation includes the student and faculty functions of generating, tracking, and maintaining large amounts of mock data including stock information, press releases, corporate and individual finances. Typically, these functions have been achieved through a variety of mechanisms including web sites, RSS feeds, forums, and conferencing applications. Due to size and complexity of information required for the function of this simulation, the use of the previously mentioned applications have proven to be inefficient and inadequate.
The authors have spent the last year developing a Rich Internet Application using the Adobe AIR technology that consolidates the functions of the multiple simulation mechanisms into a single, unified application. The RIA was subjected to usability and assessment testing to ensure that an effective application was built that acheived the goals of the project.
The presentation will detail the rationale for the project and decisions concerning the Adobe AIR technology, the development process itself, and the results of two rounds of user test data that was used to determine the efficiency and effectiveness of the cgCentral application.
Terry Burton
Associate Professor
Purdue University
Associate Professor
Purdue University
Terry Burton's research commitments include the development and implementation of graphic based solutions for industry. As a professor of Computer Graphics Technology at Purdue University, he concentrates on developing strategies that focus on enhancing visualization and visual literacy in a variety of environments. Terry has been recognized for excellence in teaching, community service and technology applications. He is applauded by industry personnel who recognize and appreciate his pragmatic common sense approach to solving problems. He has been a leader in developing graphic-based systems that utilize the latest technology to create non-disruptive solutions which are both practicable and efficient. Workforce Training News, a nationally distributed training journal, recently recognized his efforts in creating a computer-based Just-In-Time Training (JITT) system for the Whirlpool Corporation. Along with Whirlpool, his credits include system solutions for TRW, Cummins Engine, General Electric, Amana, Frigidaire, Delta Faucet, Caterpillar and many others. He has served as chief executive of operations, operations manager, owner/operator, educator, and planner/project manager in a variety of governmental and industrial settings. His background, experience, motivation and commitment are descriptive of an individual who welcomes demanding situations.
Industries utilizing his services realize dynamic and organized solution strategies that are the foundations for developing and delivering graphic products on a corporate-wide basis. He is the author of graphic creation and distribution systems that participate within, and enhance, TQM, Kanban, JIT, ISO 9000 and System Re-engineering. He is a leading proponent of industry's changing paradigm from two-dimensional graphic products to the three-dimensional modeling-based graphics systems. With over twenty four years of experience in education and industry, along with appointments to three different board of directors, Terry is prepared to not only prescribe a solution, but to be actively involved in its implementation.
Kellen MAicher Maicher
Assistant Professor
Purdue University
Assistant Professor
Purdue University
Kellen Maicher is an Assistant Professor specializing in Interactive Multimedia in the Department of Computer Graphics Technology at Purdue University. Kellen holds an M.S. in Computer Graphics Technology from Purdue University, as well as a B.S. in both Biology and Technical Graphics. In his professional experience he has worked as a multimedia project manager and freelance new media developer.
Kellen currently teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in interactive multimedia development and human factors for applied computer graphics. He has developed, taught, and co-taught eleven courses in his six years as a CGT faculty member, instructing on topics including animation, web design, and multimedia development. In addition to his professional experience, teaching, and research activities he has presented and instructed at national and international conferences.
Kellen has been presented with two consecutive Outstanding Faculty Awards (06-07) in the College of Technology and was nominated for the James D. Dwyer Outstanding Undergraduate Teaching Award in 2006.
His research endeavors primarily focus on the assessment and validation of human factors related to computer graphics technology applications. Specific interests in HCI technology, usability, user-centered design, and performance testing. Application areas include a variety of computer applications with a specific focus on educational, instructional, and training multimedia. Kellen has presented papers and given workshops at various conferences including international presentations in Russia, Norway, and Poland.