Story:
Step into the vibrant world of The Griot Quest, where traditions echo through time and stories flow like rivers.
In this upcoming game, players embark on an immersive journey of discovery, guided by the rhythm of the land and the wisdom of the elders.
Through the art of rhythm, they unlock the secrets of each community, delving into the stories, songs, and dances passed down through generations of African cultural heritage.
Objective
The objective of The Griot Quest is to guide players through the journey of becoming a griot by navigating various scenarios that require the mastery of both rhythmic, mathematic, and English language skills.
This educational game is specifically designed to foster STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) skills in early childhood using culturally grounded methodologies.
Mechanics
Rhythmic HCI
In The Griot Quest, players engage in Rhythmic Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), utilizing rhythmic creations to interact with computers.
This unique mechanic allows players to issue commands such as navigating through maps, making selections, and accessing various modal encodings within each quest.
Rhythmic call and response
The call and response system in The Griot Quest consists of two phases: the call, where players are shown how to perform an action, and the response, where they repeat it.
This approach provides clear instructions and immediate interaction, allowing players to swiftly practice new concepts and receive instant feedback.
Drumball
The Drumball translates rhythmic input into diverse outputs to study its impact on children's early literacy.
It explores cultural systems in technology design, moving beyond traditional interfaces like keypads.
This involves creating letter and word sequences through drum tones, showcasing a unique approach to human-computer interaction.
Camps and Modality
Identity Camp
In Identity Camp, participants create spirit animal avatars, embodying traits and aspirations.
This activity fosters self-discovery and builds connections within the camp community.
Rhythm Camp
Rhythmic Camp introduces participants to the encodings of drum language, featuring the tone-slap-bass framework, facilitating initial exploration of rhythmic communication.
Additionally, participants engage in rhythmic practice through call-and-response exercises involving various combinations.
Alphabet Camp
In the Alphabet Camp, we introduce the concept of rhythmic encoding for the alphabet.
Each letter is represented by a unique 4-beat rhythm using drum symbols, forming the Alphariddim system.
For instance, the letter 'A' is encoded as '• – x x', with each symbol corresponding to a specific drum sound.
Children are prompted to input the correct rhythm encoding for each letter, enhancing their understanding and mastery of the alphabet.
Numbers Camp
At Numbers Camp, participants delve into Numeriddim, a coding system that transforms numbers into rhythmic patterns.
Through engaging activities, campers explore the rhythmic interpretations of numerical values, discovering the fascinating intersection of mathematics and music.
Vocabulary Camp
At the Vocabulary Camp, participants dive into the fascinating world of rhythmically encoding language through the Syllariddim system.
This innovative system breaks down words, phrases, and sentences into rhythmic patterns based on their syllabic structure and stress type.
Campers engage in hands-on activities to explore how each syllable is assigned a specific rhythm, depending on its stress pattern.
Through interactive exercises, participants discover the rhythmic interpretations of language, enhancing their understanding of syllabic patterns and stress types.
Join us at Syllariddim Camp for an immersive experience where language meets rhythm!
Proverbs Camp
In the Proverbs Camp, we utilize the Syllariddim system to delve into the rhythmic structure of common African proverbs.
By dissecting the syllabic patterns and stress types of these proverbs, participants uncover their deeper meanings and cultural significance.
Through engaging activities and discussions, campers gain insight into the wisdom encapsulated within these traditional sayings, fostering a deeper connection to African heritage and linguistic traditions.
Demo
register now and play Griot Quest!
Contact
Pierre-Valery Tchetgen, PhD Assistant Professsor College of Arts, Media & Design
Department of Music Northeastern University
