The EcoRaft project: a multi-device interactive graphical exhibit for learning about restoration ecology

ABSTRACT

The EcoRaft Project, an interactive installation designed to help children learn about restoration ecology, allows participants to engage physically with animated agents via a natural and intuitive interface. This physical engagement occurs when the agents transfer seamlessly from stationary computers to mobile devices, on which the agents are realized as quasi-physical manifestations. Utilizing tablet PCs to act simultaneously as objects in the physical world and as mobile virtual spaces, the system incorporates embodied mobile agents that increase levels of engagement. The project has been publicly shown at several venues, where over 2000 participants interacted with the system. This paper presents initial evaluation results based on interviews with participants indicating that the embodied, physical interaction in this installation leads to participant engagement and collaboration, and enhanced educational effectiveness.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.1 Multimedia Information Systems
          Subjects: Animations

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.1 Multimedia Information Systems
          Subjects: Evaluation/methodology; Artificial, augmented, and virtual realities

Keywords:
children, collaborative education, engagement, multimedia installation, physical interfaces, rainforest and restoration ecology