October 1, 2005 (Vol. 25, No. 17)
Rating:
Strong Points: Excellent educational tool
Weak Points: None
Summary:
Molecular Logic (MOLO) is an NSF-funded project aimed at improving “the ability of all students to understand fundamental biological phenomena in terms of the interactions of atoms and molecules.” With a focus primarily on students in grades 10–14, the site employs molecular computational models to help students visualize complex information. Students can change parameters and watch the effects these have on system behavior, providing powerful learning experiences. The site is a database with hundreds of models of chemical and biological phenomena. The modules are written in Java and download on a cable modem in less than a minute. The quality of the images is good and the student-settable parameters are very useful for introducing students to each topic. An excellent Website.