Augmented reality made its true debut in the world of video gaming with exciting options like Pokemon Go, catching the attention of millions across the world. This introduction to the potential of augmented reality, or AR, serves as an open doorway to a range of applications. At its heart, AR offers users a chance to engage with content in a new and more interactive way, and with a little creativity, this concept translates easily to the classroom.
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented reality does what its name implies; it adds content into the real world. Images or markers (called triggers) in the real world are made scannable, to be read by a mobile device. The triggers give the viewer, through the device’s rear-facing camera, the option to engage with or view additional information digitally. In some cases this involves an image triggering a video, but may also present a 3Dimage or play an audio track.
How Can Augmented Reality Work in Schools?
Students are arriving in schools with smartphones and tablets in hand, and significantly more technological knowledge than previous generations. Many schools have adopted the 1:1 classroom concept where each student is provided with their own laptop, netbook, or tablet to use in and out of school. Working alongside the transition to a technology-focused educational experience are augmented reality programs and apps that bring access to more in-depth information for students through the use of mobile devices.
Innovative, pre-made educational resources come with integrated triggers and markers to use with mobile devices. The good news is that educators do not need to be completely technologically savvy to provide their students the opportunity to interact with AR in the classroom; educators can simply guide students through the installation of the AR app, and then watch as students are given the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding and further exploration of important concepts.
Hands-on exploration is also possible with AR, as students can manipulate and engage with the images they see through the device’s camera. It might not be the classic plastic or paper model hands-on experience, but it offers similar benefits of visual memory and improved concept absorption. Today’s high-tech environment still requires students to think critically, but offers the benefit of the development of computer literacy skills and access to the latest tools and apps both in the classroom and at home.
Augmented Reality Tools for the Science Classroom
Energy Quest, a new title from CPO Science Link is an innovative and helpful addition to life science curriculum. Using AR and gameplay, students are able to interact with the concepts of cellular respiration and photosynthesis–topics that are typically tough for students to grasp. The Energy Quest curriculum incorporates varying levels of difficulty and detail in each game and AR activity, allowing teachers to customize the educational experience to match students’ needs and understanding. The AR element also allows students to interact with a three-dimensional cell, offering a new perspective and more comprehensive and interactive visual experience.
To learn more about Energy Quest and its ability to enhance life science curriculum, follow the link below.
ScienceFLEX, a modular supplementary science solution for grades 3-5, uses augmented reality to give students a unique look at the world around them. Take a trip through the inside of a workings of a simple machine or peel back the layers of the Earth to see what lies beneath.
