The Center for Image Processing in Education promotes computer-aided visualization as a tool for teaching and learning. CIPE conducts workshops and develops instructional materials that use Image Processing and Geographic Information Systems technologies as platforms for teaching about science, mathematics and technology.

Image processing (IP) is the analysis and manipulation of pictures on a computer screen. For example, with IP, details in a faded picture can be enhanced, diagnostic structures in a medical image labeled and measured, and regions of an satellite photograph categorized and quantified. Two IP software programs, NIH Image (Macintosh^®) and Scion Image (Windows^® 95), have been used throughout the world by scientists for many years. These public domain tools currently are indispensable tools for research in planetary science, medicine, dentistry, materials science, environmental science, biotechnology, and agriculture.

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are computer programs designed to store, update, analyze, display and manipulate spatial data. GIS permits the knowledgeable user to pose and answer questions about any data which can be mapped. Scientists, engineers, managers, planners, technicians, politicians, marketing specialists, and educators rely on the power of GIS to study issues relevant to their work. Such issues might include research on the spread of toxic substances in a watershed, how to best locate a new freeway in a crowded urban region, where impoverished households are located in a county, or the extent and depth of a newly discovered mineral deposit.

CIPE helps teachers and students apply these tools to learn about science, mathematics, and technology. More than simple "point-and-click" or "drill-and-practice" activities, CIPE's IP and GIS materials require true interaction with a computer, encouraging critical thinking and problem solving skills that cannot be learned from a textbook.

To find out more about the services CIPE provides:

e-mail us
write to us: P.O. Box 13750 Tucson, AZ 85732-3750
call us: 800/322-9884

We look forward to hearing from you!

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Last updated: April 17, 1998

© 1998 Center for Image Processing in Education, All Rights Reserved.