1. The Graphics Teaching Tool Anne Spalter, Dana Tenneson, Andy van Dam Brown University

2. Inspiration Knowledge of computer graphics becoming part of basic IT literacy needed in many industries and academic areas (from art to engineering to multimedia and beyond) Most tutorials dull and do not address students own projects: show how but not why Most tools for teaching basic concepts in computer graphics aimed at technical audiences Professional programs not designed to teach underlying concepts

3. Photoshop Great program but… Over 50 tools Over 100 filters Tools names/images based on historical developments Not designed to teach

4. Illustrator Also a great program, but… Similar number of tools/options Ink pen metaphor not nearly as helpful as brush metaphor

5. 3D Studio Max One of several great 3D packages, but… Countless icons, menu choices Shift from metaphor to more technical language

6. The GTT Simplified interface Tools represent key functional areas Not production- oriented, but not toy system—fun, useful

7. Pedagogical Strategies Constructivist action vs. reading/lecture real-world problems can be tackled Simplified tool set to convey key functionality Integrated 2D/3D/raster/vector environment to encourage experimentation among program types Interaction with underlying models to give students more accurate, useful mental models when using professional software

8. GTT Live Demo