This project is establishing an undergraduate scientific visualization laboratory at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. Visualization technology is changing the way in which science is performed by providing new ways to apprehend structure in science. For exactly these reasons, visualization technology can have a profound impact on the way undergraduate students study science. The laboratory being established consists of three-dimensional graphics workstations and a compatible video projector. Software to support applications of scientific visualization is being obtained through a combination of local development, using student programmers, and commercial sources. The project members are beginning development of applications in Quantum Chemistry, X-Ray Diffraction, Protein Conformation and Function, Numerical Solutions of Differential Equations, Orbital Mechanics, and Neural Networks. Providing undergraduate students with access to visualization technology will have a deep and lasting effect on their understanding of science and their motivation to pursue further study.
