http://ubiquity.acm.org/ http://ubiquity.acm.org/article.cfm?id=2480353 <p>While evolution has inspired algorithmic methods of heuristic optimization, little has been done in the way of using concepts of computation to advance our understanding of salient aspects of biological phenomena. The authors argue under reasonable assumptions, interesting conclusions can be drawn that are of relevance to behavioral evolution. The authors will focus on two important features of life---robustness and fitness---which, they will argue, are related to algorithmic probability and to the thermodynamics of computation, disciplines that may be capable of modeling key features of living organisms, and which can be used in formulating new algorithms of evolutionary computation.</p> Sat, 01 Jan 20130501 00:00:00 GMT Hector Zenil, James A. R. Marshall 2480353 http://ubiquity.acm.org/article.cfm?id=2447479 <p>Phil Yaffe has provided numerous commentaries on various aspects of professional communication, which have helped readers more effectively articulate their own ideas about the future of computing. Here he tells us about how scientists see the world---the "scientific approach," he calls it---because he thinks many non-scientists see the world in a similar way. This realization can lower barriers of communication with scientists.</p> Sun, 01 Jan 20130328 00:00:00 GMT Philip Yaffe 2447479 http://ubiquity.acm.org/article.cfm?id=2447478 <p>The goal of the LabRats Science Education Program is to inspire secondary school-age students from all backgrounds to love learning about science and technology. Shawn Carlson, the Executive Director of LabRats, presents five key insights that can be integrated into any science and technology program. The purpose of which is to overhaul students' attitudes and motivation to learn. Carlson also offers detailed suggestions on how educators can use these insights to inspire their students to become lifelong learners of science and technology.</p> Thu, 01 Jan 20130314 00:00:00 GMT Shawn Carlson 2447478