Use of the curiosity cabinet metaphor to support inclusive learning

Abstract

Our idea relates to the combination of emerging HCI technologies such as Virtual and Mixed Reality and an innovative Question and Answering (Q&A) system with already existing concepts of spatial learning and inquiry-based learning in education in order to evolve them to answer the needs of modern education. In the project we use the concept of the curiosity cabinet as our core 'learning enabling' metaphor. To enable the creation of learning experiences we are combining the curiosity cabinet metaphor with a set of artefacts (real of virtual objects) so that educators can set the stage for the learning experience. Moreover, we also facilitate learners to design and create their learning spaces by accessing the artefacts collection and selecting items they find appropriate to include in their spaces attaching additional information related to the respective learning experience. Therefore, learning spaces created during a learning experience support both highly individualized curiosity cabinets as well a shared space to co-design, co-create and share the learning artefacts. This supports both the personalized learning spaces for the individual learning to develop agency of learning, as well as collaborative group learning spaces. These personalized and collaborative learning spaces evolve over time to reflect changes in the learning and development and, habits and needs of each particular learner or group of learners. © 2016 ACM.