Mechanistic simulation: guaranteeing quality interactive learning resources amid the multimedia hype

Abstract

Mechanistic computer simulation is distinguished from cartoon animation. Mechanistic simulation may be further classed as either descriptive or fundamental, depending on whether the model equations are chosen arbitrarily or as inescapable consequences of the fundamental mechanism. This distinction is illustrated by animation of a bouncing ball. Fundamental simulations are presented within the context of electronic tutorials for motion of a damped spring, differential extracellular recording of electrical activity in nerve, pharmacokinetics of drug clearance, and interactions between shifts in supply and demand curves in determining market equilibrium. These examples all provide cost-effective, high quality educational resources for interactive experimental learning.