US Geological Survey Water Resources Research National Competitive Grants Program

This project will result in increased awareness of the importance of groundwater and a more accurate spatial understanding of fundamental groundwater concepts for teachers and students on Guam. A group of twelve middle school and high school science teachers from the Guam Public School System (GPSS) will receive training in the development of field-based simulations for engaging students in fundamental issues related to the structure, scale, and the role of groundwater in the hydrologic cycle on the island. Field-based educational simulations supported by handheld technologies, also known as augmented reality simulations, are an emerging type of learning tool that integrate game-design principles and scenarios; and incorporate rich media content, such as images, audio, and video. Users employ location-aware mobile devices to receive information and explore the environment in a field-based setting.