What is AR?

AR or Augmented Reality allows one to unlock or create layers of digital information that goes along with the physical world they are already a part of (Nesloney, 2013). In other words, it enhances the world around you by adding to what you are already seeing/viewing.

There are a number of games and applications out there that already use AR. You might be using it and not even know it! Games such as Pokemon Go, Minecraft Earth, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite all use AR. Google Maps, and IKEA Place are also phone applications that use AR.

AR isn’t just for games and shopping though, it can be used in the classroom for educational purposes as well! Let’s take a look at some ways you could use AR in your classroom.

One application called, Elements 4D Blocks allows the viewer to see the elements in AR and how they come together to form a reaction. This could be a great option for upper grades as they learn about science.

Quiver Vision allows the user to print off and color a picture. Then, using their app you scan your picture and pick a world and watch as AR takes your drawing on an adventure. This could be a great way to involve younger students in AR while allowing them a hands on option as well as they color their page.

Cyberspace Shape Quest is a great game from PBS Kids that uses 3D shapes and AR and allows students to work on shapes and spatial reasoning as they explore and build on the game. This would be a good option for elementary students.

For younger elementary students who are fans of Pete the Cat there is a game where students can navigate all through Pete’s school as they help him search for his guitar. This would be a good option for K-1 students as they get used to the technology.

Our Discover Island: Phonic Tricksters is a great way to get kids up and moving as they use their device to take pictures and “catch” the phonics trixsters as they have escaped. It also requires students to answer phonics based questions as they continue catching the trixsters. Great for K-1 students who are working on basic phonics skills.

In conclusion, AR allows for a number of different uses when it comes to education. There are applications out there that reach all levels of education while including AR. This allows for a new way for students to learn while still staying in their current classroom environment but exploring new ideas in ways different from the traditional way of teaching. AR has opened the door to many possibilities in education that even includes opportunities for students in the younger grades which I hope you were able to see here based on the different applications.