Augmented Reality Programs
Convinced that it will have a big role to play in our future, Matthew first started developing Augmented Reality programs in 2011. Augmented Reality (a.k.a. "AR") can be best be described as a hologram existing between a screen and yourself that you can interact with as if it was real. The advantage that AR has over traditional forms of media is that it is still novel enough that children are compelled to inadvertently spend more time learning about topics that they otherwise would not spend much time on by themselves.
Augmented Reality Station: Earth Data
The Earth Station is a mix of Augmented Reality, Ecology, and GIS. Each morning when it is restarted it connects directly to NASA servers and downloads over a dozen different up-to-date global data sets from environmental sensors that analyze the land, sea and air. It then creates the illusion that you are holding the Earth in your hand while you explore data and discover the connections between say, the fires in Africa and the carbon particulates over the Amazon. This is an exhibit whose imagery and data changes every day automatically.
To the best of Matthew's knowledge this program, which combines AR and near real time data, is a one-of-a-kind.
Augmented Reality Station: Atoms
Atoms, what are they good for? Learning about atoms via traditional means may be one of the least popular subjects for most school students in science class. That is why it is perfect for Augmented Reality. The Atoms Station teaches about atomic properties using text, video, and of course, Augmented Reality. It creates the illusion that you are holding a single atom of hydrogen in one hand, and two helium atoms in the other. When you bring your hands together a bond is formed and a water molecule is created.