Augmented Reality for E-Learning

At The AREA we are keen to bring a wide perspective on as many industries as possible in which Augmented Reality is being introduced and adopted. We have collated a number of news articles to provide readers with a round-up of articles connected with Augmented Reality in E-learning.

An article on Sponge UK discusses how Augmented Reality has developed from consumer devices to having an increased role in business and industry, and will play a big part in e-learning in the future. Potential training uses for AR mentioned include:
• Creating safe practice environments
• Performing a physical task that hasn’t been done before
• Allowing people to collaborate on tasks and communicate

An article on Elearning Industry.com states the opportunities in education for Augmented and Virtual Reality, as well as 3D objects and motion capture, in particular what is currently being used in schools in Spain. Examples include:
• Marine biology students being immersed in a seabed environment
• AR for Teaching languages
• Architecture students visiting monuments using VR
• A VR booth which adds temperature and smell for full immersion
Issues noted include the introduction and adaptation of new technology when integrated into the education system can be quite complicated; however, new devices will meet the needs of education when training is given.

This article from TechCo lists the top trends for e-learning, and includes Augmented Reality. It claims that the AR environment adapts to students based on their individual taste, allowing them to find their own potential. Other aspects of technology that are aiding developments in e-learning include:
• Gamification
• Mobile learning
• Social media learning
• Video-based learning
• Personalised e-learning
• Big data
• Micro learning

The following research article shows that Augmented Reality is becoming increasingly popular in e-learning due to its accessibility for young students as well as teachers. The report discusses key technologies in AR as part of education, as well as the benefits and disadvantages of using AR for e-learning. In addition, current and future AR trends are stated along with opportunities for further research.

An Education Technology interview from December last year with Ricardo Montesa, CEO of Brainstorm Multimedia, shows how new technologies can greatly benefit the education sector. Key points include:

• Tech is now being used as an innovative tool for immersive teaching in all schools and university
• Students being in a 3D virtual environment enables them to understand complex parts of the syllabus better
• Students have increased motivation during collaborative projects
• Students can improve their presentation skills
• Teachers can showcase more ability than they do in current programmes
• Digital contents are becoming more common in education