Computer graphics: from desktop to mobile and web

Abstract

Traditionally, computer graphics courses have centered on desktop environments using well-known frameworks such as OpenGL. That approach might become obsolete in a new context in which developers must create applications for smart phones, tablets, and rich Internet applications. Teaching computer graphics in this situation is becoming difficult; traditional tools don't address these new requirements in an integrated way. To deal with this situation, the Processing development environment provides high-end solutions in visualization, animation, and interaction, while letting students deploy their programs on desktop computers, smart phones, tablets, and websites. Instructors can introduce devices and interaction paradigms in just a few hours. In an introductory computer graphics course, Processing dramatically boosted students' motivation. Their work wasn't just visible in the lab; they could show it to classmates and friends on their own smart phones, tablets, and websites. © 2006 IEEE.