Mixed reality space travel for physics learning

Abstract

In this paper we describe research being conducted on a mixed reality simulation called MEteor that is designed for informal physics learning in science centers. MEteor is a 30 x 10 foot floor area where participants use their bodies to interact with projected astronomical imagery. Participants walk and run across the floor to simulate how objects move in space, and to enact basic physics principles. Key to the success of this learning environment is an interface scheme that supports the central metaphor of "child as asteroid." Using video data collected in our studies we examine the extent to which feedback mechanisms and interface conventions strengthened the metaphorical connection, and we describe ways the interaction design can be improved for future iterations. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.