Fashion Research Institute Announces Butterfly Exhibit Grant Applications Now Open With over 15,000 species of butterflies worldwide, using a virtual environment could allow educators to collaborate with a butterfly scientist (lepidopterist) to more fully develop the number of species and deepen the knowledge base or create multiple butterfly environments showing how different species need different ecologies. Educators might invite students to create art based on the exhibit and display it in the region in a public event (art might include dance, poetry, 2D or 3D art, stories, and more). Immersing students in this type of environment provides them with a depth of experience and understanding that can be far more easily, safely, and inexpensively delivered than through existing experiences or technologies. This type of project is suitable for interactive learning for K-20 or graduate thesis work. “I have several ideas on how this exhibit might be developed, but we’re very excited to see what uses the applicants come up" says Shenlei Winkler, CEO of Fashion Research Institute. "Shengri La Chamomile and the Saltwater House were designed as a prototypical museum display with interactive educational components, to showcase how effectively the open source OpenSim platform can be used for multidisciplinary, cross-function creations." In 2009, Ms Winkler designed and developed the Shengri La Chamomile region on the OpenSim platform. Within a painstakingly created environment that emulates a Victorian naturalist's studio, the exhibit includes interactive components for each of 100 unique butterfly species displayed in a characteristic manner. “The OAR file (OpenSim Archive) of the original Shengri La Chamomile region will be awarded complete with butterflies, the large Victorian Saltwater House, gazebos, landscaping, and swans. With design and creation time, we estimate this represents a $75,000 value to educators to help jumpstart their proposed project,” says Winkler. Each recipient of the grant will receive a license to use an existing OAR file for one year, with an option to renew at the end of the term. Applicants are requested to submit their application showing they meet the minimum requirements at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ButterflyGrant and then email their plan for use to butterflies@fashionresearchinstitute.com for consideration. The application process is open from July 1, 2010 through July 30th, 2010. Selection will take place August 15, 2010, and the awards will be issued August 31, 2010. ##
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