Equator: Digitally Augmented Learning Experiences

The Equator project is a six-year interdisciplinary research collaboration between eight British universities, exploring the relationship between the physical and the digital. One theme that Prof. Yvonne Rogers has been PI for is "playing and learning". A number of projects have been conducted that explore how novel learning and playing experiences can be designed that move beyond the desktop to promote reflection, collaboration and a sense of wonderment among children. An example is the Ambient Wood project  ­ an outdoors digitally augmented learning experience. A variety of handmade and off-the-shelf devices (e.g., PDAs) were designed, built and deployed using a wireless network in a real woodland. A main goal was to enable children to reflect upon various invisible biological processes (e.g., photosynthesis) through discovering various physical aspects of the environment (e.g., light, plants, insects). The medley of learning tools included probing devices, an ambient horn and a periscope device (see belowthat when interacted with provided a range of contextually relevant information. Our studies showed children exploring the Ambient Wood in highly collaborative, imaginative and reflective ways.

For more information see the main Equator site or see the Sussex Equator site.