Flow visualization is the process of making the physics of fluid flows visible. The results are fascinating and often visually stunning. I teach an unusual course on flow vis, and am doing research on the impact it has on students. The course itself: The Flow Visualization course is designed for mixed teams of engineering and…

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In 1997 I learned that vortex rings had been observed in the human heart,  and what that might mean for improving diagnoses. Since then, I’ve been fascinated with trying to get a better view of cardiac fluid dynamics, and a better understanding of the possible implications for, well, helping sick people. Who could resist? Précis…

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Like most of my colleagues, I began teaching using the same instructional techniques that my professors used on me: lecture, homework, exams. The occasional project. Around the time I started developing the Flow Vis course, I started hearing about the idea that faculty could apply the techniques of their discipline, of research, to improving education.…

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