Published By: Technical University of Munich, 12/5/2016

>> View the Article <<

Summary

Technical University of Munich researchers have created a project named OpenGridMap that maps the locations of electrical infrastructure (part of OpenStreetMap). Their goal is to build a worldwide map system plotting the information, which will be accessible to all engineers and scientists.

Extended Discussion Questions

• How does this story demonstrate the use of computing to enable individuals to collectively solve large-scale problems? What specific technologies have made the problem more tractable?
• The TUM researchers use GPS locations of users to mark power grid locations. What are some advantages of using this method, compared to hiring contractors? What are some disadvantages?
• What ethical issues should the TUM researchers be prepared to deal with when collecting location data via crowdsourcing?
• What impact might this project have on scientists and engineers who are researching electrical infrastructure?

Relating This Story to the CSP Curriculum Framework

Global Impact Learning Objectives:

• LO 7.1.2 Explain how people participate in a problem-solving process that scales.
• LO 7.2.1 Explain how computing has impacted innovations in other fields.

Global Impact Essential Knowledge:

• EK 7.1.1E Widespread access to information facilitates the identification of problems, development of solutions, and dissemination of results.
• EK 7.1.1F Public data provides widespread access and enables solutions to identified problems.
• EK 7.1.1I Global Positioning System (GPS) and related technologies have changed how humans travel, navigate, and find information related to geolocation.
• EK 7.1.2E Some online services use the contributions of many people to benefit both individuals and society.
• EK 7.1.2G The move from desktop computers to a proliferation of always-on mobile computers is leading to new applications.
• EK 7.2.1C Computing enables innovation by providing the ability to access and share information.
• EK 7.2.1E Open and curated scientific databases have benefited scientific researchers.

Banner Image: “Network Visualization – Violet – Offset Crop”, derivative work by ICSI. New license: CC BY-SA 4.0. Based on “Social Network Analysis Visualization” by Martin Grandjean. Original license: CC BY-SA 3.0