3 Ways to Use AR for Learning

We’re all familiar with Virtual Reality (VR), which immerses users in a completely digital environment. However, sometimes staying grounded in the real world is more beneficial. That’s where Augmented Reality (AR) comes in. AR overlays virtual content onto the real world, seamlessly blending digital elements with our physical surroundings.

For example, with devices like smartphones or AR glasses, educators can enhance real-world learning experiences. Think about shopping for eyewear online—some websites let you "try on" glasses virtually using just an image of your face. Or picture buying furniture online, where you can use your phone to place a virtual piece of furniture in your room to see how it fits. These practical applications of AR demonstrate its potential in everyday life.

Now imagine taking this same technology into learning environments. How could AR revolutionize the way we teach and learn? The possibilities are endless.

4 Ways to Use AR for Learning:

1. Training and Skills Development

   AR is used for job-skills training and development in various industries, such as manufacturing, maintenance, and healthcare. Through AR overlays, workers can receive hands-on training and guidance, reducing the need for physical equipment and minimizing risks.

2. Science Simulations

   AR simulations allow learners to interact with virtual objects and experiment in a simulated environment. For instance, learners can explore the human body by overlaying virtual organs onto a physical model or observe chemical reactions by visualizing molecular structures.

3. Field-Based Learning

   AR technology can significantly enhance field-based learning activities and outdoor learning experiences by providing contextual information and interactive overlays on historical sites, natural landmarks, and other points of interest.

4. Educational Apps

   Educators can use apps to help learners apply examples of lessons to the real world.  For example, AR apps can overlay constellations in the night sky for astronomy lessons or display historical landmarks in a geography lesson.

Considerations

An important advantage of using AR for learning is that organizations can access it at a lower expense than VR. AR can also leverage QR codes. QR codes may serve as hot spots or geolocations that activate information sources. So, learners can use their AR glasses or smartphones to scan the QR codes and interact with the visuals without physically touching them.

As technologies such as AR and VR continue to advance, organizations have a great opportunity to integrate those everyday technologies into their learning environments.

References

Hwang, G-J., Wu, P. Chen, C. Tu, N. (2016). Effects of an augmented reality-based educational game on students’ learning achievements and attitudes in real-world observation. Interactive Learning Environments, 24(8), 1895-1906. 

Koutromanos, G., Sofos, A., & Avraamidou, L. (2015). The use of augmented reality games in education: A review of the literature. Educational Media International, 52(4), 253-271

Porter, M. E. & Heppelmann, J.E. (2017). Why every organization needs an augmented reality strategy. Harvard Business Review retrieved from https://hbr.org/2017/11/a-managers-guide-to-augmented-reality

Steffen, J. H., Gaskin, J. E., Meservy, T. O., Jenkins, J. L., & Wolman, I. (2019). Framework of Affordances for Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality. Journal of Management Information Systems, 36(3), 683–729.