Application to enhance the teaching and understanding of basic image processing techniques

Scientific visualization is the representation of data graphically as a means of gaining understanding and insight into the data. An excellent place to start learning scientific visualization is in the field of image processing, since it involves algorithms that help convert data into images. In today's technology-oriented world, the term 'image processing' generally refers to the processing of a two-dimensional data set using a computer. This was the main reason that the initial research was completed in the implementation of image processing techniques using a software called Advanced Visual Systems Express (AVS Express). There is a definite need to show how that would benefit instruction as a teaching aid, and also how it helps optimize the time taken to implement these different techniques using this software. It also increases user understanding of these techniques. It is possible to fully implement many of the different image processing techniques such as edge extraction, gradient operators, convolution, compression and extraction, as well as many others in a relatively short time. In comparison to previous attempts with other popular software such as MATLAB, the time difference proved to be immense. The main advantage of AVS software is that it provides a visual programming environment which allows the user to see the flow of information of the different algorithms as they are being implemented. Since no time is spent writing and correcting code, the understanding of the image processing techniques becomes much clearer in a shorter period of time, and thus in depth study is possible. We have developed a number of techniques and are in the process of integrating AVS Express into the curriculum for the Digital Image Processing (EE523) course at Tennessee State University as a teaching and study aid.