T45 Innovative Hands-on Geoscience Lab and Class Activities for use in Undergraduate Teaching (Posters)

Sunday, 9 October 2011
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Hall C

THE eGEO VIRTUAL WORLD FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE EDUCATION

Paper number: T45-1
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Authors

Abstract

Using eGEO software, students are teleported to a fictional planet where they are able to explore an immersive 3D environment, use instruments to take measurements, interact with software tutors and other players via a structured chat interface, complete scientific tasks related to environmental issues on the planet, and take assessments measuring their understanding both during and after the experience. The eGEO package includes a dynamic pollutant simulation system (with an underlying editor tool), and a water eutrophication module in a simulated river system

Water quality is a central theme in eGEO. Students are able to measure pollutants, create graphs, and draw conclusions based on pollution data. The dynamic pollutant system adds a layer of complexity to those data. Rather than having a single static water ecosystem, pollutants can be added to the water ecosystem in real time - changing its characteristics and the data returned from instrumentation. The pollutant system editor provides an interface to that system, giving developers and content experts the latitude to change the level and manner of pollutants, creating new teaching moments for students. In this way, new modules featuring new pollutants can be rapidly developed, mitigating one of the bottlenecks that can create software development delays. This module contains nine goal-related learning tasks with associated conversations, assessments, and other assets, adding content to the eGEO game.