Communicating Jellyfish Science Through Games

Authors:

• Briana Gabel, Museology Graduate Program
• Chair: Angelina Ong
• Julie Keister
• Correigh Greene
• Kathryn Sobocinski

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Abstract:

Jellyfish are a largely misunderstood animal from the public’s perspective. Displays of jellyfish in public aquariums are completely separated, disconnecting them from their place in the food web. By communicating their ecological impact, place and presence in the food web, the public can develop an appreciation for the species with help from aquariums. The purpose of this project is to provide aquariums a variety of tools to communicate the role of jellyfish in food webs in order provide the public a more holistic understanding of Puget Sound ecology. Three tools were developed for this project. 1) A web browser-based video game titled Plankton Pursuit was developed, illustrated, and coded by the team to allow players to explore the waters of Puget Sound as a jellyfish. 2) A printable, cooperative board game Food Web Frenzy allows players to explore Puget Sound’s food web centered around jellyfish and using plankton as currency. 3) An educational and activity toolkit in order to supplement information about jellyfish specifically within Puget Sound, the contents of which were in response to local, public educators’ requests, specifically those with little background in STEM, for information about jellyfish ecology, biology, and human influence. These tools are anticipated to be made available online through Washington Sea Grant in Summer, 2021. Over the next year, utilizing partnerships with local aquariums and community marine centers, elements will be integrated into existing programming and/or exhibits or into new curriculum as well as leveraging their social media to reach their audiences directly.

Poster:

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Project Deliverable:

Communicating Jellyfish Science Through Games

Video Presentation