IT Across Careers

Google Earth is being used by researchers to map different mutations and outbreaks of dangerous variants of the H5N1 virus, the virus that causes avian influenza. Researchers hope that by displaying the data in a 3-D visual map they can come up with new biological control strategies to predict where mutations of the virus are likely to occur.

Originally developed for communication and surveillance networks on battlefields, a new type of wireless network design facilitates more powerful communications without the expensive infrastructure and could potentially help extend the batter life of consumer wireless devices.

Most students are not taught how to critically evaluate information found on the Internet. The ability to read, understand, and decipher online material requires a unique skill set—qualities many of today's students have yet to grasp, according to researchers at the University of Connecticut and Clemson University, who with funds from the U.S. Department of Education, are creating a custom built model to help students acquire the kinds of higher-level comprehension skills necessary to navigate today's digital landscape.