Spring Track General Requirements
This year, FDI is again offering alternative tracks that will meet during the spring semester. By attending the sessions that comprise a spring track, faculty can opt out of participating during the summer months and still meet the participation requirements to receive a computer.

Spring Track W Description
This spring track will introduce faculty to the production and deployment of Deep Media. “Deep Media” refers to interactive, 3D virtual spaces that may include “rich media” types such as images, sound, video, and animation. Beginning with an introduction and overview to Deep Media, participants in this track will learn the various ways Deep Media content can be delivered through the presentation of examples from a variety of disciplines. The pros and cons of Deep Media in research and education will also be outlined early in this track. From this introduction, participants will learn to use various tools that assist with 3D graphics publishing, modeling and animation. Visualization design techniques will be explored and will include an overview of recent research into human perception and cognition that informs design choices. An overview of the creation process of dynamic, scripted 3D environments, and immersive environments (e.g., stereoscopy, large screens, and CAVE technology) will conclude this track. Any media / computer-savvy faculty member will be able to be productive in this track; however, as it progresses, a knowledge of client-side (e.g., Java, ECMAScript, etc.) and server-side (e.g., Perl and PHP) technologies will aid in understanding but are not required of all participants. Upon completing this track, participants will be able to plan and execute basic interactive visualization and 3D content production. Academic support staff and graduate teaching assistants may participate with faculty as a 2-person project team. Due to limited instructor availability, those wishing to participate must be available on Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to noon during the spring semester.

Spring Track W Requirements Overview
The Spring Track W will require participants to attend seven selected spring short courses to receive a computer. The table to the right summarizes these requirements. The table below lists the required short courses with descriptions and dates offered. If you plan to attend a spring alternative track, you must be able to attend required sessions from those listed below. As always, it is possible to sign up for more than the required minimum courses.