Aquaverse is an interactive game which provides students the opportunity to experience taking care of virtual living creatures in a virtual environment. the students inquire and learn about tropical freshwater fish in different sized aquariums and a pond featuring fish found in ontario waters. the game is based on the science ontario curriculum for grades one and two. problem solving skills are promoted as the students have to think about and act upon all of the necessary steps to take care of fish and plant life in order to complete a “quest.” when random events occur, such as a power failure or light bulbs burning out, the students have to problem solve in order to maintain the healthy environment. the students are rewarded by earning badges and spins on a “wheel” when they have completed a quest. once the students are successful with one aquarium, a second game “the pond” becomes available. this is a game based in a pond where the students have to “clean up” the pond using simple machines in order to assist in keeping the environment healthy for the fish and wildlife. badges may also be won when playing the pond. as the main premise of both games is to promote an inquiry based learning approach, the students are frequently asked questions rather than given answers. in order to differentiate for all learners, each screen is either automatically read to the students and/or the students may select to have it read to them. aquaverse is a wonderful opportunity for the students to experience an aquarium and pond situation who may not be able to do so in real life!
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