Process

In order to come up with a proposed solution for this problem, I begun researching the most effective way to educate children and teenagers about light pollution. Özyürek and Aydin (2015) found in their study during the post knowledge tests that school students commented particularly on the animations as a highlight of the experiment. Their recommendations for future research included the development of concept cartoons to aid learning, as it was found to enrich the learning experience. These findings deeply influenced the direction of this design proposal. I chose to create an augmented reality game, as its immersive nature would enhance the learning experience, and provide an ideal platform for showcasing cartoons.

When trying to educate children about the impact light pollution has on native flora and fauna, I knew I had to find a character that would engage and inspire them. I decided to use the Pygmy Possum as the main character due to it’s cute looks and importance in the Australian ecosystem. The Pygmy Possum is an endangered mammal endemic to South Australia, this was important to me as this is where the facility is located. Being nocturnal, the Pygmy Possum relies on the dark night skies for foraging and shelter so light pollution takes a huge toll on this species. In order to engage kids further with the game, I drew inspiration from the animation style of popular children’s television programs such as Bluey.

Help a Pygmy Possum get home by connecting constellations in this fun, problem solving augmented reality game. In order for you to guide the Pygmy Possum home, you’ll need to jump, climb, and swing from the constellations. Light up the path home through connecting the constellations. You do this by tracing the stars in the air using a remote. The game will be displayed either on a large screen or projected. Avoid light from torches, it will make the stars disappear! If you cross the beam of light while connecting up a constellation, you will have to start from the beginning. Once you have connected all the constellations, an animation will play of the possum moving across all the constellations until they reach their home. At the end of each level, a fun info card will share facts on the history of the constellations you encountered while playing.