"The Scoop on Soil" Exhibit

Project Description

Transforming a clod of dirt into “Claude,” Silver Oaks created an interactive program and kiosk that explores the importance of soil for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Exhibited at the Chicago Lincoln Park Zoo, the display features an educational game on a 37″ touchscreen plasma monitor, as well as reveals the “recipe” for soil and explains the different soil layers and types found in Illinois.

In a computer-based game, “Claude,” an original animated character, takes visitors on an above- and below-ground tour to show how soil is made. Encouraging discovery, the game invites users to scroll through the above- and below-ground scenes, where hot spots trigger information panels to pop up with entertaining animations and short video clips. Information is relayed through fun, colorful illustrations, appealing to young children yet communicating facts targeted to middle school-aged children and adults. Users are also quizzed on precautionary measures that can be taken to prevent soil erosion. A CD version of the game was later created and has been distributed nationwide in schools and libraries.