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MicroSim Search Workflow

Run the MicroSim Search Workflow Fullscreen

Place the following line in your website to include this in your course.

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<iframe src="https://dmccreary.github.io/search-microsims/sims/microsim-search-workflow/main.html" height="402px" scrolling="no"></iframe>

Description

This infographic visualizes the complete workflow from a teacher's instructional need to finding the perfect MicroSim for their classroom. The four stages are:

Stage 1: Teacher Need

The teacher identifies a concept that would benefit from interactive visualization. For example: "I need something to help students understand quadratic equations."

Stage 2: Search Interface

Using faceted search, the teacher filters by: - Subject Area: Mathematics - Grade Level: High School - Topic: Quadratic equations - Interactive: Yes

Stage 3: Results Ranked

The search system returns matches ranked by relevance, with quality scores displayed. Teachers can quickly scan results and preview options.

Stage 4: MicroSim Found!

Success! The teacher can: - Preview the MicroSim in action - Copy the embed code with one click - Save to their personal collection for future use

Lesson Plan

Learning Objectives

After using this MicroSim, students will be able to:

  • Describe the four stages of finding educational resources through search
  • Explain how faceted search filters help narrow results
  • Identify the key features that make search systems effective for educators

For Instructional Designers

This workflow demonstrates best practices for educational resource discovery:

  1. Start with the learning need - not the technology
  2. Use multiple filters - subject, grade, type, etc.
  3. Evaluate quality - look for ratings and usage data
  4. Test before deploying - always preview resources first

References

  • Wilson, M. L. (2012). Search User Interface Design. Morgan & Claypool Publishers.
  • Hearst, M. A. (2009). Search User Interfaces. Cambridge University Press.