What is SimScientists?

The SimScientists program in WestEd's Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) program is comprised of a portfolio of research and development projects that focus on the roles that simulations can play in enriching science learning and assessment. The capabilities of technology allow modifications of simulation-based activities to offer accommodations for English learners and students with disabilities. Science simulations can be used in curriculum activities, as embedded, formative assessments, and as summative assessments.

The SimScientists program investigates design principles to guide the creation of effective simulations as learning and assessment tools. In addition, the SimScientists program studies how science simulations can be used at different levels of the educational system—classroom, district, and state in balanced state science assessment systems.

Overview of SimScientists

Take a look at this overview of the SimScientists program.View Video

Science Topics

SimScientists focuses on topics in middle and high school science in which students learn concepts that involve understanding systems in the world around us. SimScientists helps learners actively use science and engineering practices, and integrate practices with science content. SimScientists is informed by leading research and best practices on cognition and learning.

You can now incorporate SimScientists into your teaching practice by accessing the formative assessments and games here.

click to view a sample from the ecosystems module

Life science topics include ecosystems and human body systems. More

click to view a sample from the atoms & molecules module

Physical science topics include forces & motion and atoms & molecules. More

Earth science topics include climate & weather and plate tectonics. More