Visit StickyLock

Students Explore Topography with Augmented Reality Sandbox

Students Explore Topography with Augmented Reality Sandbox
Students Transform Learning with AR Sandbox

Students are transforming the way they learn by changing environments with one handful of sand at a glance using an AR sandbox.

The sandbox generates 3D topographic renderings with features like hills, valleys, and water bodies, all on a bed of sand. A standard AV projector and a Kinect depth camera from an old Xbox project the map onto the sand. Colours like blue represent water, while red indicates higher elevations. By moving their fingers up and down above the sandbox, users can simulate rainfall, visualised as blue streams flowing across the map, demonstrating how water travels down slopes into rivers and basins.

Devin Ayotte, a VIU Engineering Technician, explains that the tool is particularly beneficial for visual learners, as it adds a hands-on, visual element to lessons about geography and hydrology.

This cutting-edge tool was collaboratively built by Devin and Gerri McEwen, a VIU Earth Science Technician, alongside a Women in Trades Training cohort from VIU’s Carpentry department. Originally developed by researchers at the University of California (Davis) Keck Center, the sandbox utilises open-source software.

Gerri McEwen highlights the common challenge students face when trying to interpret two-dimensional maps representing three-dimensional topography. She notes that constructing a three-dimensional landscape makes it much easier for students to grasp these concepts. By offering a tactile, immersive learning experience, the sandbox allows Earth Science instructors to quickly demonstrate the physical features and natural events discussed in class. Research supports the effectiveness of visualisation tools in significantly enhancing student learning outcomes.

The augmented reality sandbox has been showcased to local school groups, at the Nanaimo Science Festival, and during VIU campus recruitment events such as VIU Fest. Both young learners and adults are captivated by the tool. It has proven especially effective at inspiring children to explore potential careers in Earth Science and Engineering.

According to Gerri and Devin, the sandbox encourages children to engage actively with the learning process. Young participants eagerly immerse themselves in building landscapes, developing a curiosity not only about the technology behind the tool but also about natural sciences, engineering, and computer science.

Looking ahead, Gerri and Devin aim to create a smaller version of the augmented reality sandbox. This portable model could be loaned to primary schools, secondary schools, and community outreach organisations, offering hands-on learning opportunities to a broader audience.

Join the Discussion


Visit StickyLock
Back to top