NASA Developing Virtual Game To Engage Teens In STEM

Well known for its activities related to space exploration, the NASA recently developed a virtual game to spark teenage interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Entitled DUST, the game which is aimed particularly at teens aged 13 to 17, is based on the following scenario: a meteor shower has covered the planet with dust, paralyzing land activity and rendering adults unconscious. The goal of the game is quite simple: it is to save the lives of adults and, in a way, to save the Earth. Players have 7 weeks from January 26 to complete the mission. To achieve this, they must solve puzzles using skills and abilities from the field of STEM.

The game relies heavily on collaboration between different players and the sharing of information and clues through apps and social networks. Hints and scientific advice are sent a few times a week to the participants in order to advance them in the scenario.

DUST was developed by a team of several American students, professionals and researchers from Brigham Young University and the University of Maryland. NASA engineers and the firm Tinder Transmedia also participated in the technical and scientific development of the game.

The NASA hopes that this game will familiarize adolescents with the aerospace field and, more generally, with the scientific spirit and methodological rigor, in addition to interest girls in scientific careers.

Although the game is in English, it can be an interesting addition to science lessons or ESL lessons by promoting interdisciplinarity.

To find out more, you can watch the promotional video on the game site.