iBiome-Wetland: School Edition 2.0

This review examines the "iBiome-Wetland School Edition," an inquiry-based learning game that has garnered multiple accolades, including the prestigious Best Learning App 2015 from Common Sense Education and the Gold Medal from Mom’s Choice Award.

The application is designed specifically for educators in biology and ecology, offering valuable features that enhance lesson delivery. Noteworthy components include:

• Mapped game levels that allow for measurable learning progress.
• Centralized access to a variety of online educational resources, including lesson plans, class activities, videos, blogs, and literature, facilitating comprehensive curriculum delivery.
• A feature for teachers to assess students’ understanding by mapping species alongside their biological roles.

Students are invited to engage with the natural world through immersive gameplay where they can build four distinct bio domes and navigate complex food webs. The challenges presented encourage students to foster these ecosystems, aiming for recognition through badges rather than traditional scoring metrics.

Key features of the app include:

• Exploration of three unique wetland habitats: freshwater marshes, saltwater marshes, and mangrove swamps.
• Unlocking over 50 species across eight categories including Crustacea, Molluscs, and Birds.
• A focus on underlying scientific principles of food webs integrated into gameplay.
• Visually striking illustrations promoting biology concepts in line with Next Generation Science Standards for middle school students.
• A commitment to child privacy, with no collection or sharing of personal information or third-party advertising.

The "iBiome-Wetland School Edition" emphasizes exploration and problem-solving within environmental science, making it a notable tool for educators seeking to inspire a love of nature in their students. Feedback is encouraged to improve future iterations of the app, reflecting the developers' commitment to educational excellence.