System Modeling: Blending Language and Human Interaction

  Paul A. Fishwick

  Abstract
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  The task of modeling dynamic systems encompasses the physical sciences,
  engineering and computer science. We create models as substitutes for the
  "real thing". Models are languages that are typically represented in text or
  2D diagrams; however, recent advances in technology are allowing us to
  explore a richer set of human interaction possibilities. Models can now be
  efficiently presented in 3D, with real-time collaboration in building and
  executing models. Models can be customized for learning or targetted toward a
  specific group of people. This wellspring of model creation suggests that we
  need to find better ways of connecting different representations in the human
  interface. I will address two  aspects of model-making for next generation
  modeling frameworks: integrative modeling and aesthetic computing.
  Integrative modeling is interrelating models and aesthetic computing is
  concerned with potential realizations of new model representations. These
  representations embody a more holistic form of interaction that treats
  collaboration, aesthetics, emotion, and creativity as equally important as
  task efficiency.
 
  Paul Fishwick is Professor of Computer and Information Science & Engineering
  at the University of Florida. He obtained the PhD from the University of
  Pennsylvania and has five years of industrial experience. His primary
  research area is model design within the context of dynamic systems for
  simulation and software engineering. Fishwick is Fellow of the Society for
  Modeling and Simulation International (SCS), has published over 200
  publications, and serves on many editorial boards in the simulation area.
  Most recently, he finished edited two volumes: Aesthetic Computing (MIT
  Press) and Handbook of Dynamic System Modeling (CRC Press).