Exploration Learning
MISSIONS
At the core of Planet3’s exploration-based learning platform are Missions. Missions combine immersive media and state-of-the-art game design to create virtual worlds where K-12 students and teachers explore geology, technology, life sciences, and engineering, transforming students and teachers into explorers. Data shows engaged learning drives better results, and in Planet3, assessment is based on what students are able to DO with the data and knowledge they are collecting rather than solely on their ability to retain the information.
Each Mission is comprised of 5 modular parts, giving teachers and students ultimate flexibility and allowing for self-driven learning experiences.
1. ENGAGE Mission Launch
Each Mission is launched with an immersive video that gives students a real world problem and assigns them the task to solve it. This mission launch provides context for rich classroom discussion relating student experiences and prior knowledge to the mission ahead.
2. EXPLORE DATA COMMAND CENTER
Dynamic data visualizations allow student explorers to become data scientists. In our data-driven world, teachers and students need more experience with reading and creating data visualizations. Planet3 leverages NASA and NOAA data to develop rich, interactive data sets, with scaffolded activities that build confidence and skills for analyzing complex data, where students can create their own visualizations to communicate results.
3. EXPLORE/Explain 3D Adventure Game
Students quickly become explorers as they create their custom avatar and immerse themselves in a virtual world, collecting data and meeting experts who help them understand the phenomena around them. Much more than a solo journey, these adventures provide rich fodder for class discussion, encouraging students to play through each experience multiple times, gaining new understanding and experience points along the way.
4. Elaborate Case Study
Local Case Studies on real-world events, both global and local, connect the dots between personal experiences and the underlying science involved. Students practice key skills such as arguing using evidence, as they present an argument for a perspective in each case study. How can the people of Indonesia manage palm oil farming, so that it’s safe for their children to attend school without breathing in unhealthy pollution levels from the air?
5. EVALUATE Interactive Assessment
Integrated into every mission are interactive assessments which allow student explorers to exhibit their knowledge and mastery of science skills. Teacher dashboards help teachers track achievements and provide a feedback loop to the Planet3 product team on needed Mission improvements.