Augmented Reality for Education

Decades ago, you could only get information about the human skeleton in images, videos or the realistic model of anatomical structures. Now, you can project a 3D hyper-realist model of the human body skeleton right in the classroom. This is one of the many ways augmented reality has transformed the way we teach and learn.

Let's take a deep dive into augmented reality and education as well as the many examples of practical applications. We'll cover:

•       What is augmented reality in the field of education?  
•       What are the benefits of augmented reality in education?  
•       Application of augmented reality in education
•       Augmented reality vs. virtual reality
•       Practical suggestions to implement augmented reality into your classroom
•       Augmented reality doesn't take away the basic learning experience
•       FAQs

What is augmented reality in the field of education?

Augmented Reality in Education (AR) is the process of incorporating digital technology to a physical class to aid students grasp real-world concepts. It isn't a substitute for real-world experience; instead, it assists students and instructors visualize otherwise abstract and obscure concepts.

For instance, you're teaching students about the solar system. Instead of simply talking about the solar system, you decide to bring in the holographic projection device. This projector could show the sun as well as all the planets orbiting around it 3D at the center of your class. The planets can be made larger or smaller, rotate them around, and even close in on details.

This allows learners to see the scale and arrangement that the solar system has in a manner that's much more engaging and immersive than typical diagrams or drawings. Instead of reading books, browsing through pictures, or watching videos, students are able to interact through the solar system live and see exactly how it all is interconnected.

What are the benefits of Augmented Reality in the classroom?

Let's take a look at the benefits of incorporating augmented reality into the educational environment.

It enhances accessibility in classrooms

Learn about solar systems in our class, for example. This is how you can utilize AR to help students learn in different ways:

• Visual learners: Use an AR app that projects an enlarged model of the solar system within the classroom. Visual learners can see the orbits of the planets around the sun, study the size of their orbits relative to one their size, and observe phenomena like eclipses or planetary rotations.

• Auditory learners: Talk about the most important information about each planet -including its distinct features and composition -- while an AR model is running.

• Reading learners  Offer supplementary reading material or text overlays in the app including planet-related information as well as trivial research.

• Kinesthetic learners: Let the kinesthetic learners play with the virtual solar system using touch gestures or motion controls. As an example, they can "grab" the planets and move them around, and adjust their orbits.

This creates a more inclusive learning environment that permits students to study at their own pace and in a manner which best fits their particular requirements. Every student will be included, no matter how they learn.

It helps students grasp complex concepts

If you've not seen an onion and someone spent the entire time explaining the appearance of an onion it's possible that you don't comprehend what the word means. The visual representation, nevertheless, makes it easier to understand.

Augmented reality is even better. Not only can learners visualize difficult-to-understand concepts, but they can also actively interact with them. For example, they can zoom into the virtual onion in order to see its texture closely. Additionally, they could "peel off" each layer to see the inside structure of the onion.

When they finish the course, students should know what an onion is, and be able to describe the concept as clearly as anyone who's experienced the real thing.

Augmented reality applications in education

Once you've got an understanding of the concept of augmented reality and its advantages, let's take a look at some instances of how to incorporate AR into classrooms.

AR within STEM

Two main AR use cases for STEM education: inquiry-based simulation as well as problem-based

 Inquiry-based simulation

It is done by making use of AR applications to visualize abstract concepts and situations to make them easier to explore and study. Students are provided with practical experience in difficult subjects.

The GeoGebra Mathematics simulator AR app is a great example here. It lets students create interactive 3D models of geometric shapes when they work on questions. It allows them to zoom in on different areas of the shape, and alter its shape according to the equation.

This allows learners to explore mathematical concepts in a hands-on method.

 Simulation based on a problem

Utilize AR to create real-life scenarios that require problem-solving -in a group or as a self-directed group.

A good example can be found in AR Circuit. AR Circuit is an interactive simulation that allows students to connect circuit boards online. You can test different configurations, conductors, and settings to observe how the changes impact the operation of an electrical circuit.

Speaking on what inspired AR Circuit, Harry Banda said AR Circuit was born from the necessity of bridging the gap between equipment and Zambian schools, particularly for Physics and Chemistry classes.

AR in History and Art

The biggest application of augmented reality in history is the immersive learning. It helps you to recreate the past to make learning more enjoyable.

One app that does this really well is Living History, which is mostly used in museums for guided tours that are self-guided. It conjures apparitions of historical characters that re-enact the exact events that happened in the past.

Say you're walking through the World War 1 section of the museum. Instead of looking only at the notes and photos it's a journey through the ghostly silhouettes of soldiers fighting -- with the landscape and trenches of the battlefield.

Other uses of AR in the fields of art and history include:

• Digital graffiti allows students to make beautiful graffiti, without ruining walls. There are numerous mobile apps to help you with this, such as Vandaleak as well as Graffiti Go.

• Virtual 3D art production that lets students convert their drawings and paintings into 3D art pieces that they can interact with. If a student sketches an image of a home; they could convert it into a life-like home and then place it anywhere with FeelTheArt.

• Host AR art exhibitions in the classroom. Students can utilize Artivive to create beautiful AR artwork at no cost.

AR in medicine

Augmented Reality is utilized for cases-based simulations during medical education. Simulations based on case involve providing students with an intricate situation that resembles a realistic circumstance they may encounter in their work lives. This helps them to use the skills they have learned in a practical manner and build essential competencies that they can use in life in the real-world.

One good illustration one is AccuVein which is a vein-visualization device. It uses augmented reality to display an image of the veins on their skin. This aids medical professionals find veins efficiently and with greater accuracy.

In medical training, students are able to make use of the AccuVein system to practice finding veins on a model patient. The system provides real-time feedback that helps students to improve their precision and accuracy.

Augmented Reality vs. virtual reality

Augmented reality and virtual reality are often used interchangeably, but the two terms mean something different. This table is a brief comparison that shows how these technology compete against one another.

Let's look at a few of these distinctions more thoroughly.

Definition

Augmented reality overlays digital content onto the actual world to help people understand it better. Virtual reality, on the other isn't able to communicate with reality. Rather, it allows the user to be immersed in an entirely digital universe.

Examples

Imagine that you're providing a course on our body. With VR, you can make an experience that is immersive, where the students are virtually transported inside the human body and are able to study its functioning. Students can engage with various organs, zoom in to view the details of each organ, and observe how every body system functions in real-time. This makes for a highly exciting and interesting learning environment for learners to explore.

In contrast, with AR It is possible to scan a textbook page about the human heart and see the 3D image of the heart on high up on the page. Students can engage with the model and look at its many parts and see how it functions with respect to other organs. They can be able to see the textbook beneath and this creates a multi-sensory learning experience.

Cost

Augmented reality generally costs less than virtual reality because it requires less hardware.

For AR generally, you only need a tablet or phone and an AR app to get started. The majority of AR applications for schools have an initial free trial and paid plans costing 100 or less.

In contrast VR needs a headset that can cost hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars. In the case of Meta, for instance, their Quest 3 VR headset costs about $500, while Apple's Vision Pro headset costs $3,499. It is also possible to buy a powerful computer to use the VR software.

Practical guidelines for the implementation of Augmented Reality in the classroom

Remember these points while using Augmented Reality to enhance the teaching and learning.

Use the technology in conjunction with the learning goals

No matter how advanced the AR tool or software is. If it's unable to help you accomplish your learning objectives, then it's not the best tool for you.

Write down three to five items you'd like your students to know how do by the end of the class. Imagine you're in charge of a class on the solar system. your learning objectives might look like this:

• Students need to understand the composition of the solar system.
• Students should be able to differentiate the difference between orbits and the rotation
• Students should be able to recognize the planets of our galaxy

Once you've listed these questions, the next step is, "What AR tools can assist me in achieving these goals?" For example, you might make use of a virtual projector in order for displaying realistic pictures of the solar system.

Consider your budget

Explore inexpensive AR tools that are easy to use and maintain. One of the worst things you can do is to teach students about augmented reality only to quit down the road as you're unable to keep or repair the devices.

There are numerous inexpensive and free AR tools for different applications in education We have listed a few in this article. Geogebra is an excellent example of this. You can find others with a simple Google search to find the free AR apps.

Take the students to

You also need to consider the learners' knowledge levels. If they aren't sure about how AR tools work, it's best to start by using basic AR applications like 3D mobile apps. Then, you can introduce more sophisticated applications as they become more knowledgeable about the technology.

Augmented reality isn't a substitute for basic learning experiences

Imagine augmented reality as the frosting on the cake. Augmented reality can improve the learning experience but isn't able to fix problems with systems such as a lack of well-defined learning objectives, poor training, or inadequate feedback.

Be aware of these basic education requirements first. When you've fulfilled these requirements, then you are able to incorporate augmented reality to deliver higher quality experiences for students.

Augmented Reality FAQs

Find answers to frequently requested questions on Augmented Reality in Education.

How can I start using AR in my class?

To begin, determine how the augmented reality technology fits in your current classroom setup. After that, look into budget-friendly AR software and tools. Start with low-cost AR software that works on your phone before investing into more expensive equipment.

Then, gradually introduce your students to the latest AR system for teaching. Define why AR means and the ways it can be applied in the classroom. Give them examples of AR experience, then allow them to explore AR applications and programs by themselves.

Are there any affordable AR equipment for school use?

There are budget-friendly AR tools and applications for educational institutions. An excellent example of this is Co Spaces Edu, a 3D animation tool. There is a no-cost plan while the paid plans begin with $74.99.

What topics benefit best the most AR incorporation?

AR integration is primarily suitable for classes with spatial or visual elements like History, Science, and Art. In science, for instance students can make use of AR to interact through digital simulations of chemical substances or explore virtual animals.

For those interested in history, they may explore ancient civilizations by overlaying virtual ruin sites onto actual locations. In Geography you can discover different countries and cultures by overlaying virtual maps or landmarks on real-world sites. Art students can make use of AR to bring their art to life in 3D.

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

There are many methods using augmented reality in order in order to boost learning and teaching in the classroom. You can, for instance, add 3D models and animations to your textbooks, making them more engaging. Additionally, you can visualize actual scenarios, such as trees sprouting from soil, or abstract concepts from science.