An interactive exploration system that visually supports learning of country features

We have improved our previously reported 'Concentric Ring View' search interface for multi-faceted metadata so that the display of the retrieved results is more meaningful. We constructed a country data exploration system as a teaching tool for geography education at the elementary- and middle-school levels. This system enables students to search for information flexibly and intuitively by combining attributes using simple operations. We defined seven attributes (five from textbooks and two related to national flags) and created a world map that helps the student place the retrieved results in context. To evaluate the system and identify ways to enhance it as a teaching resource, we had three students use it and interviewed a senior teacher. All the students were able to easily and enjoyably use the system with its simple ring operation. They were able to learn about countries during their exploring process naturally by identifying the common properties in retrieved results and analyzing the relationships between attribute values and information gleaned from the world map. This system not only provides visual clues to students, it can help teachers make their lessons more flexible.