Virtual Garden
Due to the growing popularity of electronic products, reduced availability of playing field, destruction of the environment, most of Chinese children suffer from Nature Deficit Disorder (NDD). According to my research in 30km scope of central Beijing, with five kilometers closer to the city, about 1 insect species disappears along with 60% descent in the quantity of the same species. In future, perhaps museums and encyclopedia will become the only way that children know insects.
“Virtual Garden” is a conceptual AR (Augmented Reality) toy for kids to catch virtual insects from the real world. In addition, the toy could also be used an educational game for natural science education. It intends to provide an innovative way for kids to get a better understanding of the nature and the insects, and also a way to share their joy and knowledge in a larger community.