Hi all -
     In case you haven't seen it yet, there is a new federal funding 
agency that's just getting off the ground -- the "National Center for 
Research in Advanced Information and Digital Technologies" -- which will 
focus on funding "a comprehensive research and development program to 
explore ways advanced computer and communication technologies can 
improve all levels of learning."  This includes "simulations, games, 
virtual worlds, intelligent tutors, performance-based assessments, and 
innovative approaches to pedagogy that these tools can implement.  
Design and testing of components needed to build prototype systems.  
This could include tools for answering questions, for building and 
evaluating the construction of simulations and virtual worlds that could 
include sophisticated physical and biological systems or reconstructions 
of ancient cities brought to life with intelligent avatars (models of 
humans in virtual spaces)."  etc. etc. etc.
     The agency doesn't appear to have an official website yet, and 
their initial budget appropriation is about $0.5 million, but this is 
definitely a group to keep an eye on in the future.  Some relevant press 
releases are linked below...

-Eric

http://www.digitalpromise.org/
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/25/technology/25center.html
http://www.fas.org/press/faq/nationalcenter.html
http://www.fas.org/press/news/2008/aug_nationalcenter.html

-- 
______________________________________
Eric Hodgson, PhD
Psychology&  Interactive Media Studies
Director, Smale Interactive Visualization Center
Miami University
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www.users.muohio.edu/hodgsoep
Phone: 513.593.9804