Fossil Explorers is a virtual reality experience that immerses users in the role of a paleontologist, allowing them to uncover fossils and investigate discoveries while learning about science through interactive exploration.
The Process
Research
I began by exploring the field of paleontology to better understand the real work behind fossil discovery. I watched videos of paleontologists discussing their daily work in the field, how fossils are uncovered, and how scientists analyze their findings. I also reviewed existing educational resources for kids to see which topics were commonly taught and how paleontology concepts were presented.
Brainstorming
After gaining a deeper understanding of the subject, I began brainstorming how these ideas could translate into a virtual reality experience. I focused on identifying engaging interactions that would allow users to actively participate in the discovery process while also defining the key learning goals I wanted the experience to achieve.
UI Design
After defining the core interactions, I wrote a script where paleontologists guide the user through the experience, explaining the scientific process and providing instructions. I then designed supporting UI elements, including instructional panels, fossil fact cards, and a digital field journal that appear in front of the user to guide learning and interaction.
Development
Using Unity 3D, I built the scenes and implemented user interactions with C# and the XR Interaction Toolkit. The experience begins with a paleontologist guide introducing the user to the scientific process of fossil discovery.
Users interact with tools such as a shovel and pickaxe to excavate and break open rocks to uncover fossils. Each discovery is logged in the user’s digital field journal. After all fossils are found, users unlock a second lab scene where they place their discoveries under a microscope and receive fossil fact cards with historical information about each specimen.
Scene 1 - Dig Site
Scene 2 - Laboratory
Interactions
Shoveling – the user picks up a shovel to dig up the fossil
Pickaxe – the user breaks up the rock surrounding the fossil with a pickaxe
Microscope – the user places fossil under microscope to get a close up view
Fact Cards – after viewing the fossil under the scope, the user discovers key facts about it
Demo of Experience
Fossil Explorers highlights how virtual reality can transform the way students experience science by turning learning into an interactive discovery process. By allowing users to excavate fossils, analyze findings, and follow the scientific workflow of a paleontologist, the experience makes complex concepts more engaging and memorable. The project demonstrates the potential of immersive technology to bring hands-on educational experiences to students who may not otherwise have access to fieldwork or museum laboratories.
