52-7 Paleotería: Integrating Latino American Heritage and Paleontology Through Educational Gameplay

Session: Geoscience Outreach Efforts to Broaden Participation, Part II

Presenting Author:

Authors:

Abstract:

Paleotería (Pah-lee-oh-teh-ree-ah) is an educational game based on ‘La Lotería’, a beloved traditional bingo-style game widely known across Latino America. This version brings together colorful illustrations of fossils, paleontology careers, animals, and objects tied to the rich fossil record preserved within the U.S. National Park Service (NPS). Designed for learners of all ages, Paleotería is a playful fusion of science and culture that encourages curiosity, cultural pride, and geoscience literacy, whether in a classroom, museum setting, or family gathering like a posada!

Paleotería serves as a culturally relevant tool that promotes geoscience education and bilingual outreach, with particular appeal for Spanish-speaking audiences and learners exploring Latino American heritage. The game encourages public engagement with paleontology by highlighting fossil sites, scientific concepts, and the role of diverse communities in science storytelling.

This project was developed as an Artist-in-Residence opportunity through the Paleontological Society–National Park Service Paleontology in the Parks Fellowship, a program that pairs students and mentors to collaborate on fossil-focused projects for national parks. While many past projects have focused on paleontological inventories, this fellowship expands the program’s scope by utilizing visual art and cultural game design as educational tools. Through projects like Paleotería and bilingual resources, such as the Spanish-language Junior Paleontologist Activity Booklet, this program is helping reimagine how we communicate paleontology, making it more inclusive, accessible, and connected to the communities we serve.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-8859

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