SMALLab: a mixed-reality environment for embodied and mediated learning

ABSTRACT

In this video presentation, we introduce the Situated Multimedia Arts Learning Lab [SMALLab], a mixed-reality learning environment that supports interactive engagement through full body 3D movements and gestures within a collaborative, computationally mediated space. The video begins by describing the holistic approach to embodied and mediated learning developed by our transdisciplinary research team, grounded in understandings derived from research in the learning sciences, digital media and human computer interaction. We then outline the three core tenets of effective learning exemplified by our research -- embodiment, multimodality and collaboration. The video next demonstrates the design and functionality of the physical and digital components of SMALLab. We conclude by illustrating our partner collaborations with K12 teachers and students with four scenarios depicting Geography, Physics, Language Arts and Chemistry learning modules.

References

1. Birchfield, D., Mechtley, B., Hatton, S., and Thornburg, H. 2008. Mixed-reality learning in the art museum context. In Proceeding of the 16th ACM international Conference on Multimedia (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, October 26-31, 2008). MM '08. ACM, New York, NY, 965--968
2. Birchfield, D., Megowan-Romanowicz, Johnson-Glenberg, M. 2009. Next Gen Interfaces: Embodied Learning Using Motion, Sound, and Visuals -- SMALLab. Proceedings of the American Educational Research Association Annual Conference; SIG Applied Research in Virtual Environments for Learning {ARVEL}, San Diego, CA, April 2009.
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Index Terms

• Applied computing

  • Education

    • Collaborative learning

    • Computer-assisted instruction