Shutterbugs: Wiggle and Stomp

Functionality & Mechanism

This educational game, developed by the Smithsonian Science Education Center and Filament Games, simulates a photographic expedition at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. The core mechanism prompts users to observe animals and capture images of them performing specific actions like swimming, running, or stomping. This interactive task-based process facilitates learning by directly linking motion-based vocabulary to visual examples. The experience is augmented with printable coloring pages for each featured animal, extending engagement beyond the screen.

Development & Context

• The application is a collaborative project between the Smithsonian Science Education Center and educational game developer Filament Games.
• Its primary educational goal is to teach students how to observe and describe various types of movement and motion.
• The game's setting is a virtual version of the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, featuring animals from its collection.
• It is available as a web-based application for computers and as a downloadable app for iPads via the Apple App Store.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is designed as a learning support tool for students in both home and classroom environments. Its scope is specific to introducing vocabulary related to animal locomotion and basic principles of motion. It serves as an introductory educational resource and not a comprehensive zoological or physics simulation. Information is based on developer descriptions.