AMBL labs has built considerable online clout with the development of a number of web based projects. These projects cover a wide range of nuances including: (1) the exploration of science culture, (2) the provision of science advocacy tools, (3) the use of gamification principles, (4) the creation of interdisciplinary communities of practice and discussion, (5) the creation of an outlet for creative science writing, and (6) the simple act of being engaged, entertained, and (sometimes) made to laugh in scientific discourse.
THE PHYLO TRADING CARD PROJECT:
(For more information, click here).
Phylo is a crowdsourced trading card project that revolves around concepts of biodiversity. Initially conceived as a response to research done by Andrew Balmford (where it was shown that children knew more about Pokemon than real creatures around them), this project has evolved into a fully sustainable biodiversity card production web site. This includes input from the scientific, the educational, the gaming, the graphic design, the programming, the open access, and even the intellectual property community. Cards are made available as both free print-at-home cards. as well as high quality decks hosted by specific organizations. Go to http://phylogame.org to check it out.
THE SCIENCE CREATIVE QUARTERLY: (retired 2019)
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This is science writing website, which publishes (mostly) original written pieces of creative science writing. It currently attracts an approximate readership of 100,000 per month, and has been privy to original works by writers who have contributed to places such as the New Yorker, McSweeney’s, The Walrus, the New York Times, to name a few. To read some of these pieces, please visit http://scq.ubc.ca
THE TERRY PROJECT: (retired 2017)
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This is a cross-faculty program designed to educate undergraduate students on pressing global issues like climate change, poverty, conflict and disease. Recognizing that these problems demand a rich multi-dimensional understanding, our chief aim is to create forums that promote interdisciplinary dialogue between students of the humanities and students of the life sciences. Content includes written pieces, course material, videos of invited high profile speakers, TEDx speakers (delivered by UBC students), and high production value podcasts. All content is archived at terry.ubc.ca
SCIENCE SCOUTS: (retired 2013)
(For more information, click here).
Science Scouts is a fun and humorous online project that re-imagines badge culture, but with a scientific twist. When initially conceived, it led to a massive outpouring of commentary by many science bloggers, who proudly described why they would deserve specific badges. Given the popularity of the badges (which are also now available for purchase via independent vendors), the website was revamped in 2011 with an aim to allow science folk to leave their stories as comments. As a result, it therefore exists as a reflection of science culture, by virtue of the many stories/comments shared. Go to http://badgesforscience.org if in need of some solid procrastination time (and a chuckle or two)