Supporting Ecosystem Science Knowledge and Practices Using Immersive Virtual Environments and Mobile Augmented Reality

• In Event: Poster Session 3
  In Poster Session: Scientific Practices and the Learning of Science

Abstract

Observation and data collection are key ecosystem science practices, and these activities can be engaging for science learners. Whereas experts focus on collecting question-relevant data and observations and use background knowledge to guide their process, science learners may struggle to use these in ways that best support learning and that reflect authentic practices used in the field. Here we report on a 3-week ecosystem science curriculum using an immersive virtual environment in the classroom followed by a mobile-device enabled field trip to an ecosystem near the school. We examine whether this curricular intervention supported development of 1) more expert approaches to the scientific practices and 2) more sophisticated explanations of natural phenomena.

Authors

• Amy M. Kamarainen, Harvard Graduate School of Education

• Shari J. Metcalf, Harvard University

• Tina A. Grotzer, Harvard University

• Meredith M Thompson, Harvard University

• Michael Shane Tutwiler, Harvard University

• Christopher J. Dede, Harvard University