A Parents’ Guide to Agents of Discovery

Technology is becoming an integral part of education, and parents are constantly on the lookout for innovative ways to engage their children in learning. The Agents of Discovery platform embodies innovative education for everyone. This interactive educational tool combines augmented reality with real-world exploration, providing a unique and exciting learning experience for kids. This guide will explore how parents and families can take full advantage of this platform.

What is Agents of Discovery?

Agents of Discovery is an educational platform that uses augmented reality (AR) to create interactive and immersive learning experiences for children and families. The platform seeks to inspire curiosity and promote learning through outdoor exploration. By blending technology with outdoor activities, Agents of Discovery encourages kids to “make screen time green time.”

Getting Started

To begin the Agents of Discovery journey, parents can download the “Agents of Discovery” app from the App Store or Play Store and explore the available Missions in their area. These Missions are educational AR games designed to be completed in specific locations, such as parks, museums, or historical sites. There are also a variety of Missions that are available to be played from anywhere, so parents don’t have to travel to access these educational experiences. Parents can choose a Mission that aligns with their child’s interests and the available locations in their area. Missions are available for a variety of topics, like science, history, and environmental conservation. Check out the Missions page to see what’s available to play now.

Key Features of the Platform

Outdoor Learning

Agents of Discovery encourages families to spend time together outdoors and explore their communities. Missions are often location-based, turning parks, museums, and other public spaces into interactive learning playgrounds. Parents can use the app to guide their children through the Mission, fostering a deeper connection with the world around them.

Learn more about the benefits of outdoor learning.

Learning Through Play and Movement

Agents of Discovery makes educational content into engaging games that players have to move to experience. Players become “agents” on a Mission, playing Challenges and unlocking new levels of knowledge as they progress. The interactive elements keep kids engaged in learning, and make them excited to play more Missions. Agents of Discovery can encourage kids who enjoy video games to go outside their comfort zones and explore their communities. It can serve as a stepping stone to more outdoor engagement. For example, if kids aren’t comfortable with being outside and walking along a nature trail, they can play Geauga Park District’s Return to the West Woods Mission. The technology engages them with their surroundings translating into them getting much more out of the experience. Check out this video to see the reaction of the young families!

Parental Involvement

Parents play a crucial role in the Agents of Discovery experience. Players under 13 years of age need a parent’s verification to set up their account. When parents actively participate in Missions with their children, they can facilitate discussions, provide guidance, and share the excitement of discovery. The app’s interactive nature encourages collaborative learning within the family.

Accessibility Features

Families with children or parents with disabilities can find a variety of accessibility features in the app. There are text-to-speech options for players with visual or reading issues, and Play at Home Missions for players who can’t visit Mission sites. Missions are a perfect activity for wheelchair-friendly sites. Families whose first language is not English can access Missions in English and French. Agents of Discovery plans to add many new languages to the platform so even more families can play in their first language. Check out this article from the Department of Interior about Agents accessibility features for their locations.

Agents of Discovery offers a dynamic and innovative approach to learning, utilizing technology to incentivize players to explore the world around them. As parents, embracing this free platform can make learning an interactive family adventure. So, put on your detective hats, embark on exciting Missions, and let the learning adventure begin!

Check out this article from CNBC to find more tech strategies to get young families outside.

If you have questions about how the Agents of Discovery platform can benefit your family, contact us at [email protected].