NoRILLA: Bridging Physical and Virtual Worlds to Change STEM Education

Developed by Nesra Yannier, Ken Koedinger and Scott Hudson

At its core, NoRILLA integrates real-life objects with virtual simulations to provide a comprehensive learning experience. Here's a closer look at how it works:

1. Physical Components: NoRILLA uses tangible, real-life blocks and objects that children can manipulate. These blocks and objects serve as the foundation for building various structures and conducting experiments. Children also interact with physical apparatus such as an earthquake table or a set of ramps in the physical world accompanied with interactive feedback and guidance from the system.
2. Virtual Components: An on-screen AI-agent in the form of a gorilla guiding children through different learning activities. This digital guide interacts with the physical blocks, providing real-time feedback and instructions. 
3. Interactive Feedback: NoRILLA employs AI algorithms to analyze the children's interactions in the physical world. The system provides instant, personalized feedback and guidance based on the child's actions, reinforcing correct concepts and gently correcting misunderstandings.
4. Research-Based Methods: NoRILLA's design is grounded in proven educational research. It incorporates principles of inquiry-based learning, where children learn through exploration and experimentation. The system also utilizes cognitive psychology insights to optimize the learning process, ensuring that children not only understand but retain the concepts being taught.

Studies have shown that the system significantly improves learning outcomes compared to traditional screen-based methods. Research indicates that children using NoRILLA improve their understanding of STEM concepts by five times compared to those using traditional methods. The combination of hands-on experimentation and digital feedback creates a powerful learning experience. NoRILLA's interactive nature keeps children engaged and motivated to learn. The blend of physical and virtual elements makes learning enjoyable and fosters a deeper interest in STEM subjects. Lastly, NoRILLA is designed to be used in various educational settings, including schools, museums, after-school programs, early childhood programs and play areas. Its adaptability ensures that children from diverse backgrounds can benefit from its new approach.

NoRILLA's impact extends beyond individual learning outcomes. It represents a leap in educational technology, showcasing the potential of mixed-reality systems to change education. The system has received numerous awards and accolades including multiple grants from National Science Foundation and others, for its approach and effectiveness in enhancing STEM education. It is currently being used in many informal and formal learning settings reaching millions of children and families.

Overall, NoRILLA is a mixed-reality educational system and a new genre of intelligent science exhibits/stations that merges the physical and virtual worlds to improve children's inquiry-based STEM learning. By integrating real-life objects with virtual simulations and providing interactive feedback, NoRILLA offers a comprehensive and engaging learning experience. Backed by extensive research and proven to enhance learning outcomes, NoRILLA is sure to transform STEM education for young learners. For more information, visit NoRILLA's official website.