AnswerTree: A Collaborative Mobile Location-Based Educational Game

Abstract

In this paper we will describe AnswerTree, a collaborative mobile location-based educational game designed to teach 8-12 year olds about trees within the University of campus. The activity is designed around collecting cards (similar to Top Trumps) with information about notable trees. Each player begins by collecting one card then other players gain further cards by answering questions using the knowledge shared by a current cardholder. This allows each player to be a subject expert at the start of the game and requires interaction in order that the game is successfully completed. In this initial paper we will outline the structure and background of the game. The game is based on the Hyperplace framework and is a first implementation of a wider process to develop a flexible, multi-purpose platform for location-based mobile learning (both individual and collaborative).