AN AUGMENTED REALITY SANDBOX INTERACTIVE LESSON PLAN FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

When it comes to learning how to read a topographic map, students have difficulties visualizing a 2-dimensional surface into a 3-dimensional one. Topographic maps are able to show the shape of the lands’ surface, as well as hydro-processes in 2D. By implementing augmented reality with the concept of topography, this enables students to better understand the world when using a technological tool called an Augmented Reality (AR) sandbox.

During my Geoscientists-In-the-Parks internship at Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, in Idaho, I developed and designed a high school topography lesson plan that uses an AR sandbox. This lesson plan follows the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), Common Core State Standards (CCSS), and Idaho State Standards. Students will learn about topographic maps with an introductory PowerPoint Lesson, classroom worksheets that test their understanding, and engage in an interactive exercise using the AR sandbox.

Students become more motivated and engaged to learn when adding technology to the learning process, and it is important for students to experience different methods of learning, especially hands-on techniques. Use of an AR sandbox in classrooms (including at Harvard University and California State University Fullerton) allows students to become quickly immersed in the learning topic, allowing for a more intuitive understanding of geologic processes.

During my internship I also learned and received training on park interpretation and theory, answered visitor questions about our park and fossils, and learned how to identify and collect fossils from our park’s fossil beds.