The Geography of Imagineering in a Box curriculum

When it comes to designing rides, the setting and theme play crucial roles in creating a unique and immersive experience for visitors. The location of the ride can determine the kind of experience that can be achieved. For instance, a ride set in a historical area like the trenches of the Star Wars universe would create a different atmosphere compared to one set in a modern park.

Geographic Culture

Understanding the local culture of the selected geography can assist in creating an authentic and respectful ride when designing rides in connection with that location. Even in fictitious lands and science-based realities- there are some worldly familiarities. You can develop a meaningful and exciting ride by researching local traditions, architecture, and stories as an Imagineer. Incorporating the culture can provide a better understanding of the place and its people, making the ride more immersive.

The Geographic Influence

The geography of the location also plays a significant role in ride design. The climate and weather conditions can impact the design of the ride. For instance, a ride located in a colder climate may require heating systems or snow machines to keep visitors comfortable. When designing the ride, the terrain of the area should also be considered to ensure maximum safety, comfort, and enjoyment for visitors. If the ride is designed with the local weather conditions in mind, visitors can enjoy the ride regardless of the weather.

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability is another important factor to consider when designing rides. The geographical location of the ride can impact its sustainability. For example, a ride located in a sunny area may use solar power to reduce its carbon footprint. On the other hand, a ride located in a rainy region may require measures to prevent water runoff. Additionally, using electric or hybrid vehicles can make rides more sustainable than those using traditional gas-powered vehicles.

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The Actual Geography

Finally, the geography of the theme park itself can present real-world constraints that designers need to consider. The size and shape of the land, proximity to other rides, or natural features on the property can impact the design of the ride. To create an immersive and authentic experience for visitors, it is crucial to design rides that are respectful of their geographical context. Encouraging students to consider all aspects of geography when designing rides can lead to rides that are not only fun but also authentic and respectful.

Research Disney's Imagineering Geography

Hollywood Studios

Indiana Jones™ Epic Stunt Spectacular!

The adventures of Indy and Marion will leave you breathless as they perform incredible stunts with explosive special effects, and you'll learn the secrets behind their feats- while enjoying the rich thematic work of the show. Based on the theme and culture, what is the performance's geographical history?

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Whether you are a pilot, engineer or gunner, every role on the Millennium Falcon is crucial to the successful outcome of the exciting interactive smuggling mission. You and your crew will face danger at every turn as you jump into hyperspace in the Millennium Falcon, the engines rumbling as you blast off. Are you up for the job? Check out your chances of success aboard the Millennium Falcon and find out if you can outmaneuver the odds. What are your thoughts about the geography in this ride?

Animal Kingdom

The Boneyard

Climb through mysterious caves, hurl down twisting slides, and cross rope bridges in a world of prehistoric wonders! Discover tons of dinosaur-sized surprises digging up the past as you uncover fossils of a Triceratops and a Tyrannosaurus Rex. What is the geographical reflection of this site?

DINOSAUR

You've been recruited by a paleontologist to bring a 3.5-ton Iguanadon back to the present day. Take part in a thrilling adventure in a rugged Time Rover vehicle and discover dinosaurs that are life-like. Avoid a Cearadactylus soaring overhead as you race through unpredictable hairpin turns, dart around a fearsome Velociraptor, and survive! Understanding there is a deadly countdown, and fiery meteors crash around you- can you identify geographical features?

EPCOT

How does the transportation within EPCOT reflect the geographical challenges faced by different countries?

Transportation within EPCOT is designed to be efficient and convenient, much like how transportation is designed in real-world cities. However, in the real world, geographical features such as mountains, rivers, and deserts can pose significant challenges to transportation.

For instance, in EPCOT's Norway Pavilion, you'll find a boat ride called "Frozen Ever After." This reflects how, in Norway's fjord-filled landscape, boats are a crucial mode of transportation. Similarly, the Mexico Pavilion features a boat ride too, reflecting the importance of coastal and river travel in Mexico's geography.

Pick Two EPCOT questions to tackle and include in your final research project.

EPCOT QUESTIONS: For additional points and assistance on your final project, you can refer to this resource.

How does the design of each pavilion in the World Showcase reflect the geography and culture of its respective country?
How can we relate the different climates in the countries represented in EPCOT to their geographical locations on Earth?
How does the Future World exhibit relate to the concept of human geography and our impact on the environment?
How can we use the World Showcase to understand the concept of cultural diffusion?
How does the layout of EPCOT reflect urban planning principles?
How do the different pavilions in EPCOT showcase the adaptation of humans to different geographical features?
How does EPCOT's monorail system compare to transportation systems in other parts of the world?
How does the representation of transportation in EPCOT's Future World exhibit reflect predictions for future geographical challenges?
How does the use of water in EPCOT reflect the importance of waterways in global geography?

AN EXAMPLE: Answering Epcot Q6

The World Showcase pavilions at EPCOT are designed to showcase the unique culture, architecture and geography of their respective countries. They demonstrate how the people living in different regions have adapted to their environments over time.

For instance, the Morocco Pavilion displays a traditional architectural style with thick walls and narrow streets which helps keep the interior cool and protected from the sun, reflecting Morocco's desert climate. On the other hand, the Canada Pavilion features a rocky landscape and a beautiful waterfall that highlights the country's wilderness and natural resources. The architecture, including the Hotel du Canada, is reminiscent of the chateaus found in the Canadian Rockies, demonstrating how Canadians have adapted to their mountainous environment.

It's truly fascinating how humans have evolved and adapted to their environments in diverse and innovative ways.

Imagineering Resources:

There are several more resources that can help your students understand the role of geography in ride design:

Walt Disney Imagineering: Bringing Disney stories, characters, and worlds to life through innovation and storytelling.
Google Earth: With this tool, you can explore different geographical locations virtually and gain a better understanding of their physical and cultural geography.
National Geographic: There is a wealth of information on this website about different geographical locations, including articles, photos, and videos.
National Centers for Environmental Information: The Climate Data Online (CDO) program provides free access to NCDC's archive of historical global weather and climate data, as well as station history data.
Cultural Atlas: This online resource provides detailed information on the culture of different countries, which can be useful when designing a ride with a specific cultural theme.

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