A new platform intended to empower teachers with an interactive virtual world to encourage learning through playful discovery has just been launched.

This is an initiative of three project partners, namely the University of Malta, which is leading the project through its Institute of Digital Games, Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, and the University of Skövde. It is funded by Erasmus+.

The CURIO toolkit, instruction videos, documentation, and didactic recommendations are all freely accessible online. 

When playing CURIO, students are to explore a fictional galaxy that has been invaded by the Haze of Confusion, which is draining planets’ inhabitants of their enthusiasm for learning. 

The game is aimed towards 8 to 12-year old children. 

Prof. Stefano Gualeni, who was responsible for the game design consultancy and project coordination, said "CURIO empowers teachers with an interactive virtual world that encourages scientific curiosity and proactive learning ... and that is accessed through playful discovery, which is not a common activity in traditional education".

Other project partners from the University of Malta include Prof. André Xuereb, Prof. Sandra Dingli and Ms Danielle Farrugia.