Steven Yoo - Zodiac

Context

Zodiac is a learning game that is designed to teach middle and high school students about artificial intelligence concepts. Zodiac supports student learning by providing realistic models that learners can explore and interact with. By acting as an AI Agent that explores a network to collect data, players will learn about artificial intelligence concepts such as search, optimization, and machine learning. My role included facilitating the data collection for participant recruitments and create a research design & protocol.

High Level Overview

PC Unity-based Application
Turn-Based Strategy Game (Similar to Chess or Civilization)
Artificial Intelligence Curriculum
Single Player
Two Games Modes
- Progression Mode (Consecutive Puzzle-Like Level)
  - Consecutive puzzle-like levels that contextualize learning content
- Random Seed Mode
  - Randomly generated levels w/ cross-curricular content embedded
Search the network for data and fight Virus infections while upgrading your AI Agent

ZodiacTrailerNov19.mp4

Target Audience

13-16 year old high school students
International Audience
- Primary: Chinese
- Secondary: English-Based
1-2 Years of Computer Science Experience
Interest in Artificial Intelligence
Interest in Gaming

Learning Outcomes

Experiential Learning - Abstract concepts are best learned in applied contexts. In Zodiac, students will learn by interacting with accurate models of AI systems and reflecting on how those systems work in reality.
Emotional Design - Zodiac emphasizes emotional learning design elements including narrative, visual design, and incentive design. The game has been designed to increase emotional engagement, which supports meaningful learning.
Adaptivity & Embedded Assessment - Student performance will be constructed into a score that teachers can use to measure student progress and learning comprehension across and within individual subjects.
Supports Advanced Thinking - Zodiac’s design also fosters the development of important skills such as systems thinking, media literacy, and creativity through cutting-edge learning techniques such as activity-based learning, contextualized and situated learning, and student personalization.