Augmented Reality in the Classroom
In 2017 CleverBooks team had conducted independent research focused on the topic of the potential for integration of Augmented reality technology in education. The responses were received from 126 participants (global educators) from different parts of the world who work in International, Private and Public schools (Pic. 1).
Picture 1. Participants’ geographical location.
The participants were asked about the technologies they have on their wish list that they are interested to implement in the upcoming years. The results showed that Augmented Reality (AR) technology was among the top three on the list together with Virtual Reality (VR) and 3D printing (Pic. 2).
Picture 2. Wish list of technology for the classroom.
According to Forbes (2019) Augmented Reality (AR) is one of the top 5 Digital Transformation Trends that will change the educational landscape in the next decade. It’s proposed that this visual 3D technology will change the way today’s kids learn in the classroom and beyond preparing them for the future workforce. Furthermore, it’s projected that AR will become an essential part of educational technology because it optimizes learning, improves comprehension, and increases motivation for learning, especially for kids who can’t imagine their lives without mobile devices and computers. However, the research also identified that the use of AR in the class is still new for many educators who are unfamiliar with existing AR-based solutions and Applications.
Picture 3.Knowledge of existing AR Apps for education
Nowadays, there is a large variety of ready-to-use free and paid Apps with AR for educational purposes. Examples: AR for Education (42 tools) Apps link 1 , link 2, and link 3. Using AR technology, the students can engage in learning activities more independently using the key modalities: seeing, hearing, and doing.
One of the no-cost ready-to-use Applications is also available by CleverBooks – Geometry App with AR (App download Android and iOs, Free marker to use below). The program features 3D models with Augmented Reality (AR) for main geometric shapes. Children can directly interact with the shapes improving their spatial visualization of geometric models.
Picture 4. Demo marker to experience AR.
CleverBooks Geometry App with AR is easily launched on a tablet or mobile phone (based on Android or Apple). Teachers can also connect a projector to their mobile device and project the shapes on a whiteboard, making their lessons more interactive and dynamic.
Teachers always look for innovative ideas and solutions to engage students in learning. AR also helps with visual, auditive, and kinesthetic senses and it engages all of them and, therefore, augments perception of reality. Based on the research results, it is possible to conclude, that AR technology is to interest of educators today and has a high potential to grow and help students learn.
