Christine Zeng
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Omar Ahmed
Co-Presenter: Weldy, Rachel
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Psychology / LSA
Presentation Date: April 20
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: Session 4 – 2:40pm – 3:30 pm
Room: League Ballroom
Authors: Christine Zeng, Rachel Weldy, Danny Siu, Omar Ahmed
Presenter: 68
Abstract
There is currently a relative lack of open educational simulation platforms for Neuroscience compared to the advanced and well-developed online tools that exist to teach the foundations of physics (pHet simulation), statistics (Rossman/Chance Applet), and computer science (Khan Academy, Codecademy). Neuropia, the educational software Omar Lab is developing using JavaScript, Python, HTML, CSS, and Neuron, strives to solve this issue, creating accessible neuron interaction simulations for the University of Michigan Neuroscience and Psychology students and those interested in learning Neuroscience. Implementations and improvements for Neuropia include: 1) 3D visualizations of low-rheobase(LR) neurons in the granular retrosplenial cortex(RSG) and neighboring regular spiking(RS) neurons – neurons critical for both spatial and non-spatial behaviors – by integrating the open-source SharkViewer package into the current platform, 2) smooth display of both existing 2D neuron visualization with 3D neuron visualization, 3) greater accessibility and user experience to the educational program’s design. By strengthening Neuropia through the addition of 3D neuron visualization, 2D and 3D integration, and usability improvements, Neuropia enhances student learning experiences in Psych 433-001: Navigation, Fear, Dissociated States & Alzheimer’s Disease: the Neuroscience of the Mysterious Retrosplenial Cortex, brings awareness to neuron interactions associated with Alzheimer’s Disease, and encourages Neuroscience exploration and advocacy – a largely untapped opportunity.
Biomedical Sciences, Engineering, Interdisciplinary
