Augmented Reality

Research presented on the current trend of augmented

reality in the classroom.

By Amanda Ellis

Presentation Goals

To Define Augmented Reality.

Discuss the purpose of Augmented Reality in the

classroom.

Discuss barriers that teachers face with implementing

augmented reality.

What is Augmented Reality?

In a traditional classroom instruction is delivered in a variety of ways and

is chosen based on accessibility of resources and student needs.

Augmented reality is a virtual learning environment that can be

designed to deliver instruction and training in many different

subjects. An expert in augmented reality, Ronald Azuma, defines

augmented reality as a device, “that allows the user to see the real

world, with virtual objects superimposed with the real world.” According

to Shelton and Hedly (2002) it is “a system of tools that allows a person

to view one or more virtual 3D objects in the real-world” (p.1). It allows

students to interact with virtual worlds in a real world setting. An

augmented reality classroom allows students to interact with

environments that are not easily attained or even possible in the

traditional classroom setting.

Is Augmented Reality a New Idea?

Augmented reality in classrooms seems like a

fairly new idea; however, it has a history that dates

back to the 1960’s.

Why use augmented reality in the classroom?

Students need to be engaged in their learning environment

Real world application and experience

Understanding

Every learning style can be reached

Engaging Students

Real World Application

In the article 7 Things You Should Know about Augmented

Reality by Educause (2005), it explains that, “the goal of

augmented reality is to add information and meaning to a real

object or place.” It hands teachers the world at their finger

tips. Real world learning and experience is expensive and can

be a dangerous or impossible. Augmented reality can take

students into space, inside a volcano, or even to the core of

the Earth.

Increase Understanding

Increase Understanding

An augmented reality learning environment will increase a

students level of understanding by allowing students to

interact with the object they are learning about. Lee

(2012) states that augmented reality, “can provide each

individual with their won unique discovery path with rich

content from computer-generated, three-dimensional

environments and models.”

Barriers of Implementation

Although the technology used for augmented reality, such as

mobile phones and iPads, are easily accessible and the price

continue to decrease, these technologies are not yet readily

available in schools. According to Lee (2012), “insufficient

funding by the government and lack of awareness of the need

of augmented reality in academic settings,” is the primary

reason for the lack of implementation.

Conclusion

Augmented reality arguably has is place in the classroom.

I believe that is it in our near future that we will begin

experiencing classrooms that use augmented reality to

deepen understanding and increase engagement. As

mobile devices make their way into the schools, this will

allow a pathway for augmented reality and a learning

experience that a textbook alone could not provide.