Indiana University researchers are developing a patent-pending tool to help first- and second-graders understand science.

Kylie Peppler (shown above), Joshua Danish and Armin Moczek invented BioSim, a system that includes wearable 3D indoor positioning sensors, push toys and puppets.

Peppler and Danish are associate professors in the School of Education; Moczek is a professor of biology in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Peppler said BioSim was created to introduce students to the idea of complex systems, which are collections of interdependent and interrelated elements. Students either wear bee puppets on their wrists or play with ant-shaped push toys during class. They take the perspective of the insect when they use the toys in the classroom.

"Their goal is to collect food as efficiently as possible and communicate with the community to make sure others can also collect food efficiently. There's lots of smiling, giggling, exclaiming and collaborating," Peppler said. "At other times, the students watch simulations on a projection screen, pointing out things they are noticing and explaining why they are happening."

Peppler said that even adults can have a difficult time grasping the full complexity of systems operating around them.

"Introducing these ideas through cool topics like insects and incorporating embodiment and perspective-taking can set the stage for these students to be able to learn about complex systems more deeply throughout their lives," she said.

Peppler said there is no technological burden on the teachers.

"As students use the puppets or push toys, teachers primarily are paying close attention to what they are doing and asking questions to help them think about the experience," Peppler said. "Teachers can use software after the play to closely track student performance and examine if the behavior they see is consistent with the knowledge shown when their students answer questions."