The IIC is an integral part of Harvard’s continued efforts to sustain innovation in both undergraduate and graduate education and to inspire and engage the pre-college students who are tomorrow’s computational scientists. Computational methods are vital to virtually every scientific research effort. It is critical that we meet the challenge of better integrating these methods into the training of future scientists.
Undergraduate, Graduate and Post-Graduate Studies
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In addition to this research program, which will put into practice new knowledge about applying human interface design principles and technology to collaboration and learning in science, the IIC plans to work with faculty across Harvard to reshape the traditional learning experience through the development of new types of interactive media. In the Life Sciences, for example, faculty are developing unique simulations and multimedia. These tools will allow students to explore the connections between multiple fields in the context of a compelling issue or question.
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IIC Intern Program
IIC hosted its inaugural class of six student interns in summer 2007. The interns, students from Harvard and four other institutions, played important roles in advancing research in visualization, the use of graphics processing units (GPUs) in high-performance computing for astronomy, integration of time-series data and other frontier areas. As this program expands, term-time and summer internships for graduate and undergraduate students will enable students to gain hands-on experience and contribute to ongoing IIC research that will challenge and engage them.
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Computing as Content; New Tools for Understanding
As an educational as well as research venture, the IIC will distinguish itself by supporting the development of courses that specifically address scientific computing as a content area. These courses will deal with both theory and high-end applications, but in a manner that cuts across related fields. Workshops and courses will also be offered to faculty from multiple departments. These offerings will further empower faculty to integrate advanced computation into their research and teaching.
One of the IIC’s major educational goals is to facilitate the development of new courses that focus on the interdisciplinary use of research computing in the context of a specific field. These courses will be developed as part of the curriculum of various departments in the sciences. In the near future, the creation of integrated digital environments for learning may transform the pedagogical structure of the course and create a more involving educational experience.
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Senior Thesis Program
Supporting studies over a diverse range of subjects and departments, the IIC faculty is available to help seniors identify topics and conduct research. Those interested in the Senior Thesis Program are requested to email a brief summary of current studies and areas of interest to the IIC.
Colloquia bring together leaders and students from a broad spectrum of fields to discuss the impact of current and future computational technologies on the sciences. Colloquia are open to the entire Harvard community and often include those not usually associated with computer sciences. All colloquia are videotaped and made available for viewing on this website.
Public Education
The IIC is in the initial planning stage for implementing a range of programs for teachers, high school students and others. Outreach programs will offer the public a first-hand glimpse of advances in computational science and their impact on society today and tomorrow.
