The Smithsonian reinvents itself with AR technology

MIT and The Smithsonian Institution have teamed together to create an interactive, eight week, scientific mystery. Kids age 10 1/2 to 14 years old can participate in this augmented reality video game. The game is called Vanished, and can be played on line or offline. It requires the junior scientists to work together to solve riddles, puzzles, and other online challenges, to solve one of the world’s biggest mysteries.

This event was designed in an attempt to renew a dwindling interest in science. A study has revealed that school kids are losing interest in science and performing poorly in science related classes. MIT and The Smithsonian decided to appeal to kids on a level they could relate to; through video games.  

 The Smithsonian Institution was actually an Estate in Europe that belonged to James Smithson, who was an Oxford graduate and an avid scientist and researcher. When Smithson died, he left his estate to his nephew; with a provision that stated if his nephew died with no heirs, his entire estate should go to the United States and be established in Washington under the name Smithsonian Institution, and become an establishment for the increasing of knowledge.

In 1835 Smithson’s nephew died childless and the United States inherited what is now the largest museum, education and research system in the world. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology began as an institute devoted to the advancement of technology; which was considered a very bold idea in 1861.

Founded by William Barton Rogers, MIT has pioneered research in fields from architecture to chemical engineering and produced graduates which have contributed  ideas that have propelled our country’s future. Two strong, history rich institutes working together to make an augmented reality video game; to show kids how cool science can be.

The game will formally launch on April 4^th, but the website is ready for kids to sign up now.