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Interaction Spectrum

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About This MicroSim

This MicroSim helps students understand the spectrum of interaction levels in educational simulations, from passive viewing to highly interactive experiences.

Iframe Embed Code

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<iframe src="https://dmccreary.github.io/search-microsims/sims/interaction-spectrum/main.html"
        height="452px" width="100%" scrolling="no"></iframe>

Description

The Interaction Spectrum visualizes four levels of user interaction in MicroSims:

  1. Passive - User watches without input (auto-playing animations)
  2. Low - Minimal controls like play/pause and reset
  3. Medium - A few adjustable parameters with sliders
  4. High - Extensive control over many parameters and modes

Students can: - View the color-coded spectrum from blue (passive) to green (high interaction) - See icons representing the typical controls at each level - Toggle detail panels showing characteristics of each level - Enter Quiz Mode to test their classification skills by dragging example cards

Learning Objectives

After using this MicroSim, students will be able to:

  1. Classify MicroSims by their interaction level
  2. Identify the characteristics that distinguish each level
  3. Select appropriate interaction levels for different learning goals

Lesson Plan

Introduction (5 minutes)

  • Discuss why different learning objectives require different interaction levels
  • Ask students: "When would you want a passive animation vs. a full lab simulation?"

Exploration (10 minutes)

  1. Have students explore the spectrum, clicking each level
  2. Toggle "Show Details" to see characteristics
  3. Discuss the relationship between user role and control complexity

Quiz Activity (10 minutes)

  1. Enter Quiz Mode
  2. Students drag example cards to classify them on the spectrum
  3. Discuss any misclassifications and why certain examples fit their categories

Reflection (5 minutes)

  • Students identify a MicroSim they've used and classify its interaction level
  • Discuss how to choose the right level when designing educational content

References