Augmented Reality and its use in the education sector

Mar 20, 2024

In the past, students had to learn about the human skeleton using pictures, videos or even real-life anatomical models. Nowadays, you are able to show an ultra-realistic 3D representation of the human skeleton within your classroom. This is among the numerous ways in which Augmented Reality has revolutionized how we educate and learn.

This session will go deep into the use of augmented reality in education and the numerous real-world examples. We'll cover:

What exactly is Augmented Reality in the field of education?

Within the classroom, Augmented Reality (AR) is an approach to bring digital technologies to the classroom to help students understand the real world concepts in a short amount of time. AR isn't a substitute for real-world experience, rather, it helps the students and teachers understand difficult and confusing concepts.

Imagine that you're in the middle of teaching our solar system. Instead of simply speaking about your solar system, you choose to present a Holographic Projector. The projector can show the sun, as well as the orbiting planets in 3D in the middle of the category. Planets are able to be made larger or smaller and rotated around and can even be able to focus on specifics.

The pupils can view the scale and structure of the solar system in fashion that is more exciting and engaging than standard diagrams or sketches. Instead of studying books or scrolling through images or even videos the students are able to be a part of the solar system live and see exactly the way everything is connected.

What are the advantages of making use of AR in education purposes?

Let's look at some advantages that come from incorporating Augmented Reality into your learning classroom.

This improves access to the classroom.

Have a look at this Solar System class, for an instance. Learn how to use AR to assist students in learning by using different methods:

  • Visual learners: Make use of an AR app that projects an extended model of solar systems to students in class. Visual learners are capable of seeing the solar system's planets that revolve around the sun, take a look at their sizes with respect to their size and observe events such as the eclipse and rotation of planets.
  • Auditory learners are able to discuss crucial specifics about each planet including its distinct characteristic features as well as its structure while the AR model is active.
  • Readers  Offer additional texts or reading overlays in the app, like world facts, trivia and research on the past.
  • Students who have kinesthetic abilities: let the kinesthetic learners have fun playing with the solar system in a virtual way by using gestures, or motion control. They can, for example "grab" every planet, rotate them and later adjust their orbits.

It provides a welcoming learning environment which allows students to learn at their own pace and in a style that is most suitable to their personal desires. There is no one left out from learning, no matter what subject they study.

Students can comprehend complex concepts

If you've never encountered an onion before or someone has spent every minute discussing the shape and appearance the appearance of an onion then you're unclear about what the onion is. it. The visual representation, however is much more easy to understand.

Augmented reality can be even efficient. Not only can learners visualize difficult-to-understand concepts, but they can also actively interact with them. One example is to examine the virtual onion to see the texture with incredible detail. In addition, they can "peel off" each layer and see how the onion's architecture is constructed.

When they finish the class the students should be able to recognize the significance of onions and also be able to describe the concept as someone who's actually seen an actual onion.

Augmented Reality can be described as a brand new technology in the field of education.

Once you've gained an understanding of the complexities of Augmented Reality and the benefits that it can bring, let's take a a look at some real-life instances of how to incorporate AR within the class.

AR within STEM

The HTML0 format has two main AR applications within STEM education: inquiry-based simulation, and simulation based on a problem.

A game based upon questions

It's the practice of using AR apps to create complex scenarios and concepts with an aim of making concepts more accessible for people to research and study. Students get the chance to participate in hands-on learning for complex subject areas.

This GeoGebra Mathematics simulator AR app provides a fantastic example. Students can build 3-D interactive models of geometric shapes while they solve the questions. It allows them to explore different parts of the model as well as alter its appearance according to equation.

This program allows students to understand the mathematics concept within the setting of an actual-world scenario.

     Simulation based on a problem    

Make use of AR to generate real-life scenarios which require solving- whether with a team or an individual group.

An excellent example is found within AR Circuit. AR Circuit is an interactive game where students can connect their online circuit boards. You can test different circuits, settings and conductors as well as see how the changes impact the internal workings of the circuit for electricity.

The inspiration behind AR Circuit, Harry Banda explained that AR Circuit was born out from a need to fix the shortage of equipment in Zambian schools, especially for Chemistry and Physics classes.

AR along with History and Art

The most significant application for Augmented Reality in the field of historical research is immersive learning. Augmented reality is a great tool for recalling historical events, and can make learning easier.

One application that is extremely well at this and is one that does it really efficiently could be Living History, which is commonly used by museums to provide guided tours that can be self-guided. It evokes recollections of people who have gone through time, and recreate exactly the same situations that occurred during the time of our own.

When you visit your way through the World War 1 section of the museum. Instead of looking only at photos and notes, you'll have the opportunity to explore photos of soldiers battling alongside the trenches and terrain of the battlefield.

Another use of AR in history and art are:

  • Digital graffiti lets kids paint beautiful graffiti and not damage walls. There are a variety of applications that will aid you with this. For instance, Vandaleak as well as Graffiti Go.
  • Virtual 3D art that allows students to turn paintings and sketches to 3D artworks that they are able to play with. Imagine that a student draws an image of a home that they want to transform into a realistic house and then place it anywhere with FeelTheArt.
  • Hosting AR art shows in your classroom. Students can use Artivive to design amazing AR art for no cost.

AR within the realm of medicine

Augmented Reality is an excellent instrument to help with scenarios in medical education. Simulations based on scenarios are created to present students with a complex scenario that is in line with the real-world situation they will confront in their careers. This helps them use their skills effectively, and also help them develop the essential abilities that they'll need in the real world.

An excellent illustration of this is AccuVein, the vein visualization program. AccuVein uses augmented reality technology to project images of veins on the skin of a patient. The medical professionals are able to locate veins much more quickly and accurately.

Medical students can use the AccuVein method to master the art of to locate veins on a model patient. AccuVein provides immediate feedback that aids students in improving their skills as well as accuracy.

Augmented reality as well as. virtual reality

Virtual reality and Augmented Reality are often used interchangeably, but they're distinct products. Here's a quick comparison table that shows how these technology are competing against one another.

Augmented Reality Virtual Reality
What is the definition for HTML0 Combines digital information to actual world events introduces the user to an immersive virtual world
Interactive interaction with actual-world events Layers digital content on the real world replacing the real world with a digital one
Immersion level Partial Immersion Full immersion
Cost Affordable Costly
Devices Tablets, smartphones Smart glasses Tablets, smartphones Displays equipped with sensors mounted (HMDs) VR headsets
Examples Virtual 3D models VR simulators

In this article, we'll examine a few of these distinctions more thoroughly.

Definition

Augmented reality is a way to put digital information over reality to allow individuals to see it with greater clarity. However, virtual reality is not able to communicate with the real world. Instead, it lets students experience an entirely new digital universe.

Examples

When you're teaching the human body, you can use VR to help. With the use of VR it creates an immersive experience where your students are transported to the human body and allow learners to witness its internal functioning. You can play with the various organs, focus in for more details as you observe the way the organs work in real-time. It creates an extremely enjoyable and stimulating space for students to learn in.

In contrast to AR it's possible to look up a text page about your heart. It is possible to view a 3D representation of the human heart on high up on the page. Students are able to play around on the model and observe the various parts of it and observe their function as it interacts with the various organs. The students are able to read the textbook beneath as well. It provides a blended learning experience.

Cost

Augmented reality generally costs less than virtual reality as it makes use of smaller equipment.

For the purpose of using AR it is typical to require a tablet or smartphone and an AR application in order to get started. Most AR educational apps offer plans at no cost and also offer premium plans at just $100.

However, VR needs a headset that costs hundreds or even thousands. In the case of Meta such as they're Quest 3 VR headset costs around $500. The Apple Vision Pro headset costs $3,499. Additionally, it has the option of needing to purchase the fastest computer available for running VR software. VR software.

Practical suggestions for using AR in the class

Keep these in mind in the use of augmented reality to improve education and learning.

Connect the technology with the educational goals

However sophisticated the AR software or program is. If it's not aiding you to achieve your goals of studying, you may not be using the correct software for you.

Develop three to five ideas that you want your students to master by the conclusion of the class. If you're an instructor who would like to learn more about the solar system. your learning objectives that you're shooting at might look something like this:

  • Students should be able to comprehend the structure of the solar system
  • Students must be able to distinguish the orbits as well as the course of rotation
  • The pupils should be able to identify the galaxy's stars

When you've identified your goal, and have established your goals, the next question you should ask is "What AR tools can aid me to achieve these objectives?" It is possible to, for example, utilize a virtual projection system that shows realistic photos of the solar system.

Consider your budget

Look for inexpensive AR devices that are simple to keep and use. The worst thing you can do is expose your children to Augmented Reality only to have they stop using it later since you're unable maintain or improve the technology.

There are a variety of free and cheap AR devices that can use for various uses in the field of education and we've previously discussed some of them in this post. Geogebra is one of them. There are other examples with a quick Google search of the free AR apps.

Your learners must be in a position to track your progress.

Additionally, be aware of the amount of understanding of your students. If they're not aware of how AR tools function It is recommended to start with basic AR applications like 3D mobile apps. You can introduce more complex devices as they become more knowledgeable about AR technology.

Augmented Reality cannot replace the basic experiences of learning

Imagine the augmented reality being the topping on the cake. Augmented reality could improve learning, but isn't able to fix malfunctioning systems such as the absence of clearly defined learning goals and insufficient training, or lack of feedback.

Know these essential knowledge requirements prior to. When you've completed these basic requirements and are able to integrate augmented reality into the curriculum of your school to provide students with more thrilling learning experiences.

Augmented Reality FAQs

Find answers to frequently sought-after questions regarding the application of Augmented Reality at school.

How do I start with the implementation of AR for my class?

The first step is to identify where the technology of Augmented Reality fits in the present teaching environment. Then, you can explore affordable AR tools and programs. In this case, for instance it is possible to start using affordable AR software for smartphones prior to investing in more expensive software.

The next thing to do is slowly introduce your pupils to the most recent AR method of education. Discuss the notion of the concept of AR is and how it can be utilized within your class. Provide them with instances of AR experience, and then allow them to explore AR programs and apps on their own.

Do you have access to AR tools for schools?

There are cheap AR applications and programs designed specifically for schools of higher education. A great example could be Co Spaces Edu, a 3D animation software. It has a free plan as well as premium plans starting with $74.99.

What topics would will benefit the most from AR use?

AR integration can be particularly beneficial for courses with aspects of visual or spatial nature such as History, Science, and art. In the field of science such as Chemistry, students can use AR to explore the representations of chemical substances and also investigate virtual animals.

If you're looking to learn more about history it is possible to study ancient civilizations using virtual ruin sites onto the real location. In Geography you can discover diverse civilisations and nationalities by overlaying digital maps, landmarks and even maps on actual sites. When it comes to art, artists can make use of AR to let their artwork be viewed in real-time 3D.

What are the usual methods to utilize augmented reality help improve learning?

There are a variety of methods to utilize AR in order to boost teaching and learning in the classroom. It is possible to incorporate, for example, 3D animated models or animations into the textbooks you use to help them be more interesting. Furthermore, you're in a position to imagine real circumstances like sprouts of plants emerging out of soil or abstract concepts that come from sciences.

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