The current information dissemination mechanisms used in CGT 411/450 are perceived inefficient because of the lack of a centralized source of knowledge regarding the tracking of tasks related to the CGT 411/450 course simulation, in turn detracting from the true goal of the course, the scholarly research endeavor.
Are dedicated standalone rich internet applications such as CGCentral more usable than traditional browser-based tools for disseminating CGT 411/450 information?
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 propose the creation of a Rich Internet Application using the Adobe AIR technology that will consolidate the functions of the multiple simulation mechanisms into a single, unified application. The RIA will be subjected to usability and assessment testing to ensure that an effective application is built that achieves the goals of the project.