Augmented Reality is a educational field

Mar 13, 2024

In the past, students had to learn about the human skeleton using video, images or anatomical models. Nowadays, it is possible to display a 3D ultra-realistic Human skeleton model within the classroom. It is among the many ways in which augmented reality has changed teaching and learning.

We'll take a deeper look at the application of Augmented Reality to enhance education, as well as the many applications. We'll cover:

What implications do we have from the augmented reality technology for educators?

In the classroom, Augmented Reality (AR) involves bringing technology that is digital to the class to aid students grasp actual concepts. AR isn't a substitute for real-world experience but it can help educators and students understand complex and inaccessible concepts.

Imagine teaching your students on our solar system. Instead of talking about it, bring the students a Holographic projection device. The device can show the sun, as well as the planets around it 3D within your classroom. It is possible to make the planets bigger or smaller, spin the planets around and Zoom them in for greater details.

It allows students to understand the size and layout that the solar system has in a fashion which is more fascinating and deep than conventional diagrams or sketches. Instead of reading the pages of the book, or taking pictures or watching videos Students can participate in the solar system on a live basis and observe how everything interconnects.

What are the benefits from using augmented reality in education?

Let's examine the advantages of incorporating AR in your educational context.

It improves the accessibility of students who are in class.

Take our solar system class, for example. It is how you utilize AR to help teach various styles of learning:

  • Visual learners can make use of an AR software to project the scaled-down solar systems into the classroom. Visual learners can observe the orbits of stars around the sun and observe their sizes in relation to each the size of them, and even look at things such as eclipses or the rotation of planets.
  • Learners of the auditory model: discuss important aspects of the planets, such as its distinct characteristics and the composition of it - when the AR model.
  • Students who read  provide additional reading material or overlays of text in the app including planet-related information or trivia, as well as other information from the past information.
  • Learning with kinesthetics. Let the kinesthetic learners interact with the solar system's virtual by using gestures, touch and motion controls. For instance, students can "grab" things, rotate around them and shift their circular orbits.

This creates a more welcoming educational environment which permits students to study at their own speed and in a manner which best meets their personal requirements. Every student will be included regardless of their learning style.

It assists students in understanding complex concepts.

If you've not seen an onion and not one has been explaining the appearance of an onion however, you might not be aware of what that is. Visual representations, however, it makes it simpler to understand.

Augmented reality can be even more effective. Not only can learners visualize difficult-to-understand concepts, but they can also actively interact with them. In this case one could zoom into the virtual onion to see its texture closely. It is possible to "peel off" every layer until they can see the onion's internal structure.

When they finish the class, students will understand the meaning of an onion and will be able to describe it in the same way as someone who's seen the real deal.

Augmented reality applications for education

Now that you have an understanding of of AR and its benefits Let's take a look at some real-life ways to integrate AR into the classroom.

AR within STEM

The HTML0 format has two primary AR applications for STEM education: Inquiry-based simulation, and problem-based simulation.

Inquiry-based simulation

It's done through the use of AR apps to visualize abstract concepts and situations so that they make it easier to understand and learn about. Students gain hands-on practical knowledge of complex subjects.

The GeoGebra Mathematics simulator AR app is a great example here. It lets students make interactive 3D representations of geometric shapes as they are working on their homework. Students can zoom in on different aspects of the shape and change its form in accordance with the mathematical formula.

It helps students understand math concepts in an engaging method.

Simulation based on an issue

Utilize AR to build real-life situations that demand problem-solvingin groups or in the self-directed environment.

One good model could be AR Circuit. It's an interactive model which lets students connect circuit boards online. It allows them to experiment with different conductors and parameters as well and discover how the changes to these settings affect the inner workings of an electrical circuit.

Based on what motivated the application, Harry Banda said AR Circuit originated from an idea to bridge the gap between equipment and Zambian schools specifically for Chemistry and Physics.

AR within History and Art

The biggest application of Augmented Reality in the field of historical learning. It allows you to experience the past and makes studying easier and more fun.

A program that does the job well can do it well is Living History, which is typically used in museums for guided tours which are self-guided. The application evokes ghosts of historical characters which recreate exactly what took place in the past.

When visiting in the World War 1 section of the museum, you'll be amazed. Instead of simply looking at the notes and photos it's an excursion through the ghostly silhouettes of the soldiers who fought and the landscape and trenches of the battlefield.

Another application of AR in history and art are:

  • Digital graffiti lets students make beautiful graffiti, without defacing walls. There are numerous mobile apps which can be utilized for this, like Vandaleak as well as Graffiti Go.
  • Virtual 3D art that allows students to turn paintings and sketches to 3D artworks they can engage with. If students sketch an idea of a home; they could convert it into a realistic house and place it wherever using FeelTheArt.
  • Host AR art exhibitions in the classroom. Students can utilize Artivive to design stunning AR artwork at no cost.

AR is a pioneer in the field of medicine

Augmented Reality can be utilized for scenarios that aid medical training. The case-based simulations are designed to provide students with an intricate scenario based on a real situation they might encounter in their professional lives. It helps them apply their skills practically and develop essential skills for the real-world.

A great illustration of this is AccuVein, an image-based vein visualization device. AccuVein makes use of augmented reality technology to project images of the veins on their skin, which helps medical professionals locate veins more quickly and precisely.

Students in medical school may make use of the AccuVein device to understand the ways to recognize veins on an actual patient. AccuVein provides real-time feedback which assists students in increasing their precision and accuracy.

Augmented reality and. Virtual reality

Virtual reality and Augmented Reality are frequently used interchangeably however, they refer to different things. Below is a table to show how these technology can compete with each other.

Augmented Reality Virtual Reality
Definition Combines digital data and reality Immerse users in virtual reality
Interaction with real-life Digital content that is embedded on actual world replaces the actual world with a digital world
Immersion level Partial immersion Full Immersion Full Immersion
Cost Affordable Pricey
devices Tablets, smartphones Smart glasses, tablets Head-mounted displays (HMDs) VR headsets
Examples Virtual 3D models VR Simulators

Let's explore some of these variations more in depth.

Definition

Augmented Reality is a method to project digital information onto the actual world to assist users to comprehend it more easily. Virtual reality, however does not connect to the actual world. Instead it immerses the student into a completely digital world.

Examples

Imagine that you're providing a class regarding the human body. With VR, you'll be capable of creating an experience that is immersive, where the learners get transported to the body, allowing them to observe its inner functions. You can play with the different organs, zoom in for additional details, and see how the organs function in real-time. This creates an stimulating and engaging environment that students can learn in.

In addition, it's possible to make use of AR It is also possible to browse an article in a text book about the human heart. Then, you can see a 3D image of the heart in the highest position in the text. Students can play around with the model, observe its various components and discover how the heart functions in relation to the other organs. Students can also be able to see the textbook beneath this, which provides a mixed learning.

Cost

Augmented Reality is usually less expensive than virtual reality because it requires lesser equipment.

When using AR it's typical to need a tablet or smartphone along with an AR app to get started. A majority of AR applications designed specifically for teachers offer a free initial trial. Premium plans costing 100 or less.

In contrast VR requires a headset, which can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. In the case of Meta For instance, the Quest 3 VR headset costs around $500. The Apple Vision Pro headset costs $3,499. It is also possible to buy a powerful computer to run the VR software.

Tips for using Augmented reality in the classroom

Remember these points when you are using Augmented Reality to enhance the education and learning process.

Use the technology in conjunction with educational goals

It doesn't matter how well-developed the AR tool or software is. If it's not helping in achieving your goals for learning This isn't the ideal device.

Write down three to five items you'd like your students to know how do at the time they finish class. Assume you're the instructor of an class about Solar system. the learning goals you're aiming for could be like:

  • Students should be aware of how the solar system works.
  • The students should be able to differentiate the orbits as well as the rotating
  • The students should be able to identify the planets which make up our galaxy

Once you've defined your goals then the next thing to ask is "What AR tools can help me achieve these goals?" You could, for instance, use a projection device that can show real pictures from the solar system.

Consider your budget

Choose low-cost AR devices that are easy to operate and maintain. It's not a good idea to instruct students on Augmented Reality only to have them stop later because there is no way to upgrade or maintain the equipment.

There are numerous inexpensive as well as free AR tools for a wide range of instructional use scenarios (and we've included a handful in this article. Geogebra is one of the best examples here. It is possible to find other examples using a basic Google search for no cost AR applications.

Take the students with the

You also need to consider the degree of understanding you can offer your learners. If they have no idea about how AR tools are, they should begin with the basic AR apps like 3D mobile applications. You can introduce more complex apps once they are more familiar with the technology.

Augmented reality isn't a substitute for basic learning experiences

Imagine augmented reality as the frosting for the cake. It could enhance the learning experience but it can't fix the broken methods, like a lack of clearly defined learning goals, poor planning, and inadequate feedback.

Pay attention to these fundamental educational requirements before you start. Once you've met them, you can use augmented reality in order to create higher quality experiences for students.

Augmented Reality FAQs

Find the answers to commonly requested questions on augmented reality and education.

What can I do to get started with AR for my class?

The first step is to determine where AR technology can be used into your school's existing configuration. After that, look into affordable AR software and equipment. Start with inexpensive AR software that works on your smartphone before buying more expensive hardware.

The next step is to slowly introduce students to the innovative AR setup for learning. Define why AR can be and explain how it could be applied to the classroom. Show them some examples of AR experience and encourage the students to try out AR apps and software on their own.

Do you have any budget-friendly AR equipment to use in school?

There are affordable AR programs and applications designed for schools. An excellent example would be Co Spaces Edu, a 3D animation software. Free versions are available and the paid plans start with $74.99.

What subjects benefit the greatest the most AR integration?

AR integration could be a great option for courses that incorporate spatial or visual components such as History, Science, and art. For instance, in science classes the students may use AR to engage in the virtual simulations of chemical compounds or even cut-up virtual creatures.

Within the world of historical research, they are able to find ancient civilizations using overlays of real ruin sites with virtual places. In Geography there is the possibility of discovering diverse nationalities and civilizations using overlays of virtual maps or markers over actual locations. Art students can make use of AR to turn their art into 3D.

What are the typical applications of Augmented Reality in the field of education?

There are a variety of ways to use AR for you to improve education and learning at the level of classroom. As an example, you could incorporate 3D animations and models into your textbooks, making them more engaging. Additionally, you can imagine real-world situations, such as a tree germinating from the soil, and abstract concepts in sciences.

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