Population Education through Computer Generated Graphics

Abstract

The Population Dynamics Group (P.D.G.) computer assisted instruction system is designed to communicate information concerning (a) the structure and dynamics of population and (b) the relationship between population and issues such as economic development, food demand and supply, energy use, etc. This paper focuses on the population model and describes the interactive graphics program as it operates on the University of Illinois PLATO IV system. The P.D.G. programs are a good example of the ability to use currently available developments in computer technology to transmit information in a flexible, interactive and graphic format for instructional purposes.