Panoff to discuss computational modeling during Voices of Discovery science lecture, October 2

Robert Panoff, a leader in the field of computational science, will discuss the ways his discipline can enhance science and mathematics education during the Voices of Discovery lecture at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 2 in McCrary Theatre, located in the Center for the Arts on the Elon University campus.

Panoff is founder, director and senior scientist at the Shodor Education Foundation, Inc. The foundation’s mission is to advance science and mathematics education using computer technology. Computational science uses computer technology and mathematical systems to simulate complex phenomena, such as an earthquake.

Shodor is a national leader in the development of interactive software that enables students to master complex concepts and processes in the sciences. Shodor and other collaborators have formed the National Computational Science Institute, which will train science faculty in the use of computational science as a learning tool.

Panoff received a bachelor’s degree in physics from the University of Notre Dame and a doctorate in condensed matter physics from Washington University. He has held several administrative roles, including director of the Carolinas Institute in Computational Science. He received the 1990 Cray Gigaflop Performance Award in Supercomputing and the 1996 National Science Foundation Partner Award for revitalizing undergraduate education.

The Voices of Discovery science speaker series, sponsored by Elon College, the College of Arts and Sciences, invites noted scholars in science and mathematics to Elon to share their knowledge and experience with students.

The event is free and open to the public.

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