AppsFromResearch
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Biosphere 2

University of Arizona
Evidence Tier:TRUSTED

Expert-developed at a leading university

For:General Public & EnthusiastsKids & Youth
Free
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App Summary

The Biosphere 2 app offers K-12 students a self-guided tour of the research facility, using videos at 23 stops to explain its unique ecosystems and scientific concepts. The University of Arizona partnered with local educators to create content that aligns the visitor experience with state science curriculum. Students can use the app to visualize complex biomes and then apply their knowledge by building and simulating a digital biosphere.

App Screenshots

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Detailed Description

Functionality & Mechanism

This educational tour guide, developed by The University of Arizona, provides an interactive experience for visitors at the Biosphere 2 research facility. The application guides users along 23 distinct stops on the grounds, leveraging video content at each point to explain the facility's history, unique biomes, and scientific research. The tour culminates with a feature that allows students to design a digital model of their own biosphere and run a simulation to test its viability.

Development & Context

  • The app was developed specifically for K-12 school groups to connect their on-site visit with established classroom learning objectives.
  • Its scientific content was created in collaboration with local educators to align with Arizona's state science standards for grades five through seven.
  • The news coverage notes the tool aims to make complex ecosystems and abstract scientific concepts more concrete and engaging for students.
  • It is a specialized educational resource, distinct from the facility's general tour app, which focuses more broadly on history and research.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is intended for K-12 students and educators visiting the Biosphere 2 facility, serving as a curriculum-aligned educational resource. While available to the public, its content is tailored to middle school science standards. The information provided is for educational support during a site visit and is based on news coverage, not peer-reviewed efficacy studies.

In the Media

New Biosphere 2 tour app gives K-12 students a deeper look at the science under the glass

The University of Arizona developed the Biosphere 2 K-12 app to provide deeper science education for visiting school groups at the three-acre research facility, incorporating state science standards with interactive content. "We wanted to create something that was more than just a tour; we also wanted to incorporate science standards — basic biology and earth science — with the uniqueness of Biosphere 2 and the research here," said John Adams, deputy director and chief operating officer. The free app guides students through 23 stops featuring videos about the facility's five biomes and concludes with students creating digital models of their own biospheres.

ArizonaRead article

Biosphere 2

Free

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