Explore Our Exhibits
The Augmented Reality Map Table has seen many transformations over the years. The Map Table was originally featured near the front lobby of the museum, where families were able to make mountains and valleys appear on a screen by moving sand around. While staff and volunteers diligently sifted and cleaned sand daily (sometimes hourly!), this wasn’t a long-term option for the exhibit. We experimented with other materials, including lima beans, before finding a permanent solution with white pony beads. When the museum expanded in 2023, we completely recreated the Augmented Reality Map Table’s structure, and today, it’s nestled in the Why-Brary, ready for a topographical adventure. This exhibit invites visitors to:
build mountains, lakes, dams, rivers, or wetlands;
explore how water flows;
learn about elevations and connected landscapes; and
use simple technology to create maps.
Augmented Reality Map Table
How does the AR Map Table support play-based education?
“Key habits of mind associated with STEM include traits such as curiosity, creativity, collaboration, communication, confidence, critical thinking, and leadership, along with other traits such as open-mindedness, skepticism, and persistence.”