Using Augmented Reality: A Different approach to Teaching & Learning

What is Augmented Reality?

Augmented Reality is an interactive experience of a real-world environment where the objects that reside in the real world are enhanced by computer-generated perceptual information. Its content can be accessed by scanning or viewing a trigger image with a mobile device that creates a subsequent action. This action can be a video, another image, 3D Animations, Games, QR code, or whatever you want it to be.

For example, with eBooks, the course content can be embedded with videos, augmented reality, audio files, etc. Here is a small example:

Why educators should really consider augmented reality approach to teaching

In the era of digital devices, where a majority of school-going kids having access to smartphones, AR is making deep inroads in education, making studies more interesting, interactive, immersive and contextual. Augmented reality apps connected to content can create mind-blowing learning experiences and endless learning possibilities. Independent studies reveal these type of learning experiences really speak to the needs of visual learners.

The beauty of Augmented Reality is that the learning experiences can be as easy or as complex as you want. You can create your own, or download the numerous already-made apps connected to various content. But what’s even more enticing is that students can easily create these experiences on their own in a matter of minutes.

Best Augmented Reality apps for the classroom

Kitaboo is as an award-winning cloud-based digital publishing platform to create, publish and securely delivery multimedia-enhanced interactive ebooks. https://kitaboo.com/

Daqri Studio is a truly creative tool for designing your own Augmented Reality projects. Science teachers are able to use Anatomy 4D (which allows you to view 3-D images of the human body, including the heart) and Elements 4D (which enhances a chemistry classroom by bringing the periodic table to life). https://daqri.com/

STAR Augmented Reality Worksheets: With these interactive materials, the worksheet comes alive and transposes 3-dimensional models and video resources to reinforce content.

CoSpaces Edu is a design tool allows students with coding experience to create virtual 3D worlds, create infographics and tell stories through virtual exhibits and tours. Teachers create a class and post assignments. Images and 360-degree photos can be uploaded, and a companion app is available. https://cospaces.io/edu/

Links/ Resources:

https://thinkmobiles.com/blog/augmented-reality-education/

https://www.ebsco.com/blog/article/top-10-augmented-reality-tools-for-the-classroom

https://www.edsurge.com/news/2018-01-22-five-ways-teachers-can-use-and-create-augmented-reality-experiences