Augmented reality technology refers to systems that 'allow real and virtual objects to coexist in the same space and be interacted with in real time' (Bower et al., 2014, p. 1). By merging both virtual and real-world data, it can enhance student learning and engagement as it provides users access to content that is contextually relevant and malleable (Billinghurst, et al., 2001). Moreover, it has been repeatedly shown that augmented reality ignites student motivation and assists students in understanding the relevance of their learning to their daily lives (Bower et al., 2014). In recognising the key benefits of augmented reality technology, schools have gradually shifted to implementing such technologies in teaching science and humanities (Hsiao, Chen & Huang, 2011). For example, ARsights, is an augmented reality technology that allows users to connect with and integrate with Google Earth (Social Media Portal, n.d.). This technology has been used to teach the solar system in science where students create scientific games and build Google Earth models (Thornton et al., 2012).
One of the key benefits of utilising augmented reality is the ability to manipulate and interact with virtual objects which allows students to better understand the properties and relationships of objects, especially objects that are often either too small or too large to examine effectively in the normal course of life (Bower et al., 2014). Although it is acknowledged that other technologies may afford users the same function in rescaling and resizing objects, augment reality technology provides the additional advantage of 'contextualising the relationship between virtual objects and the real-world environment' (Bower et al., 2014, p. 5). Zapworks is an augmented reality technology which reflects this, where users are able to build different forms of augmented reality, such as world tracking, image tracking, and face tracking. In referring to Video 1 (see below), Zapworks can be a useful tool in the classroom, especially in teaching mathematical concepts like 3D shapes and spatial relations, as students can actively interact and manipulate the shapes laid out in the platform.
Video: 3D shapes on Zapworks. By Evelyn Chan.
By allowing students to interact and rescale the virtual 3D objects, students would have a clearer representation of the properties, spatial and temporal concepts of the shapes. However, this benefit is not only limited to teaching mathematics but rather, can equally apply to other areas of study, such as biology, ancient history, chemistry, visual arts, etc.
QR Code: Scan to access 3D shapes on Zapworks. By Evelyn Chan.
Reference List
Billinghurst, M., Kato, H., & Poupyrev, I. (2001). The magicbook-moving seamlessly between reality and virtuality. IEEE Computer Graphics and Applications, 21, 6–8.
Bower, M., Howe, C., McCredie, N., Robinson, A., & Grover, D. (2014). Augmented Reality in education: Cases, places and potentials. Educational Media International, 21(1), 1–15. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09523987.2014.889400
Hsiao, K. F., Chen, N. S., & Huang, S. Y. (2011). Learning while exercising for science education in augmented reality among adolescents. Interactive Learning Environments, 20, 331–349.
Social Media Portal. (n.d.). ARsights. https://www.socialmediaportal.com/Landscape/ARsights.aspx
Thornton, T., Ernst, J. V., & Clark, A. C. (2012). Augmented reality as a visual and spatial learning tool in technology education. Technology and Engineering Teacher, 71, 18–21.
Hello Evelyn,
I really enjoyed your blog, it was really easy to navigate and the layout was very nice. The examples you provided was really helpful and your definition of augmented reality was clear and precise. I really liked how you defined Zappworks and gave an idea of how to use the technology in a classroom. I think having a NSW syllabus outcome to link with your example would have helped and having the limitations.
Mariam Haideri (47084634) - 12/04/2023
Hi evelyn,
I really liked your blog! It was a great read and gave some insightful examples of how AR can be used in the classroom. I espically liked the connection to 3D shapes it would be very beneficial. I would of liked to to know a bit more about the limitations of zap works but overall great blog!
Alicia xerri 4/4/23
Hi Evelyn,
I think you did a great job with this post! I found the examples included in the introduction to be interesting, however, an included image showing perhaps the solar system example would help clarify what is meant.
The discussion of three-dimensional objects and shapes being contextualized into the real world. I think the points made are very well thought out, but the video shown does not appear to show the true nature of augmented reality. Perhaps including more videos and/or images that shown the interaction of AR in the real world would help in illustrating these points, particularly when reffering to the spatial understanding of scaling objects.
Tyler England (3/4/23)
Hi Evelyn,
I really enjoyed reading your blog post on Augmented Reality in the classroom and how it can be used to promote creativity in students. I particularly agree with the comment you made earlier in the post that using AR can promote motivation and allows students to understand the content they are learning and relate it to their personal lives. This is important benefit of AR as students are more eager to engage with content and transfer their knowledge.
I also agree with your idea of using ZapWorks in a maths classroom to understand shapes and their attributes. I like how you included a video of your own creation that was relevant to this. This makes it really helpful…
Zeyba Orya (24/03,2023).
Hey Evelyn,
Firstly I would just like to comment that I find your blog very aesthetically pleasing. Its very nicely structured, formatted and you’ve used great colours. I really enjoyed reading your blog post regarding how Augmented reality can be utilised in the classroom as well as it’s benefits such as encouraging creativity, learning, engagement and student understanding.
I do agree with your comment regarding how Zapworks can be used in a mathematics environment. I would have personally loved to have this emerging technology when I was in school. Especially maths!!. I love how you can create 3D shapes on there. This can be such a fun and creative way for students to learn and for student’s…