Usefulness of 3DCG and Physical Models in Flood Forecasting Based on Understanding Topography

Abstract

In this study, we focused on inudation forecasting of topography, and examined how 3DCG and physical model teaching materials affect the understanding topography. The following three findings were obtained from the results of classroom practice using 3DCG and physical model teaching materials. The first is the effect of using only 3DCG or physical models on the understanding of topography. Statistical analysis showed that for characteristic landforms such as valleys and plateaus, both teaching materials were significantly more accurate in predicting inundation than 2D topographic maps. The second point is the effect of combining the 3DCG teaching materials and the physical model teaching materials. The mean number of correct responses to inundation forecasts for microtopographic features such as depressions on a plateau was significantly higher when both materials were combined effectively than when observed alone. The third point is the difference between the effects of the 3DCG teaching materials and the physical model teaching materials on the understanding of the topography. A quantitative textual analysis suggests that the ability to zoom in and out for the 3DCG materials and the use of the sense of touch for the physical model were useful for understanding the topography.