This approach bears little or no resemblance to the question-centered, collaborative practice of real scientists. Through the use of advanced technologies, the CoVis Project is attempting to transform science learning to better resemble the authentic practice of science. Participating students study atmospheric and environmental sciences through inquiry-based activities. Using state of the art scientific visualization software, specially modified to be appropriate to a learning environment, students have access to the same research tools and data sets used by leading-edge scientists in the field.
Students can enter text and graphic notes into the database on any topic their teacher has created.
All students on the network can read the notes and students may build on, or comment on, each others' ideas. Authors are notified when comments have been made or when changes in the database have occurred. Various note formats and supports have been designed to enhance the potential of the communal database for collaborative knowledge-building. In the traditional textbook approach to teaching science the goal is primarily to give students information. GenScope helps them turn that information into knowledge.