Free mobile app Explore150 encourages youth to discover Canada's history
TORONTO, Nov. 19, 2013 /CNW/ - TakingITGlobal and Get To Know are thrilled to announce the launch of the Explore150 mobile app. This project unites the organizations in an effort to generate cultural and historic awareness through a peer-to-peer platform. Combining mobile technology and youth engagement, the app lets users discover more about and share their experiences at a growing selection of natural, cultural, and historical sites across Canada. Explore150 can be downloaded today for iOS/Android devices at http://www.explore150.ca
"It is vital that young Canadians have meaningful avenues to feel connected to Canada's history and to see their personal stories as part of a collective cultural narrative," said Jennifer Corriero, Executive Director, TakingITGlobal. "We now have a platform that materializes our objectives to enable youth to discover more about themselves and the country they live in."
"Our Government is proud to invest in projects that help youth experience history in meaningful and relevant ways," said the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages. "This is especially important as we approach Canada's 150th birthday in 2017. We are pleased to give young Canadians opportunities to connect with one another, learn new things about Canada and its history, and explore the diversity of our communities."
Combining peer-to-peer sharing with elements of Canadian history, Explore150's content comes straight from Canadian youth. A vital part of the project's fruition, ambassadors from each province and territory were a part of the process to select Canadian sites to be featured in the app. These locations vary from historic sites and museums to national parks and community markets. When a Explore150 user visits a location on the app, they are encouraged to check-in to access the peer-generated content on that site. Once checked-in, the user can retrieve information on the site left by their peers and contribute photos or written reflection about their experience at the location. Completing these tasks at Explore150 locations lets users earn points and compete for prizes.
Explore150 users are encouraged to discover new parts of Canada by visiting sites in their community, and can access other parts of Canada by participating dynamically from the comfort of their own home. Explore150 works across platforms, including Twitter and Facebook, ensuring that users can participate while staying connected with their friends on pre-existing networks.
"It's so important that young Canadians feel connected to their country and their heritage," said Mary Clark, Executive Director, Get To Know. "The Explore150 app encourages exploration and learning about what it means to be Canadian from like-minded individuals."
The Government of Canada is providing funding of $223,000 in 2013-2014 through the Youth Take Charge program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides opportunities for young Canadians to become involved in a range of activities designed to strengthen their knowledge of and attachment to Canada.
SOURCE: TakingITGlobal
Contact:
Abra Rissi
Explore150 Coordinator
[email protected]
(416)977-9363x380
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