As technology continues to evolve, it's no surprise that it is entering the classroom. One particular technology that is making waves is augmented reality (AR). AR is a technology that overlays digital information and images onto the real world, creating an interactive experience that engages the user. In the context of education, AR has the potential to improve classroom learning techniques, making it an exciting development for both educators and learners alike.
Comparing Traditional Learning with AR Learning
Traditional learning typically involves lectures, note-taking, or reading from textbooks. While these methods have been effective for centuries, they are not always engaging or interactive. In contrast, AR learning allows students to interact with digital content in a way that feels more like a game or an activity than a lecture. For example, they could use an AR app to explore the human anatomy, seeing 3D models of a human body from different angles, which provides deeper insight and engagement than what they might get from studying textbook images or videos.
An important aspect to consider when comparing traditional learning with AR learning is how it impacts memory retention. According to multiple studies, augmented reality improves information retention, as it provides a more interactive and engaging experience that's better suited for visual and hands-on learners. For instance, a study of 216 high-school biology students found that those who used AR scored an average of 33% higher on tests than those who learned from textbooks alone.
Numbers Don't Lie
Here are some more numbers that showcase the potential of AR in the classroom:
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According to research conducted by the Immersive Learning Research Network, AR learning can increase memory retention by up to 9.3%.
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The same study also found that students are up to 11 times more motivated when using AR in the classroom.
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Similarly, a study conducted by Microsoft found that AR learning can increase student motivation by up to 92%.
These numbers are impressive, and they illustrate how much potential AR has to offer in the world of education.
AR is the Future of Education
In conclusion, the evidence is clear - AR is an exciting and effective tool for improving classroom learning techniques. It has the potential to revolutionize education, making it more interactive, engaging, and effective. With the continued development of AR technology and the increasing adoption of it in the classroom, we can expect to see more and more students benefiting from this groundbreaking technology.
References:
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Clark, D. B., Tanner-Smith, E. E., & Killingsworth, S. S. (2016). Digital games, design, and learning: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Review of Educational Research, 86(1), 79–122.
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Dunleavy, M., Dede, C., & Mitchell, R. (2009). Affordances and limitations of immersive participatory augmented reality simulations for teaching and learning. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 18, 7–22.
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Immersive Learning Research Network, 2019. [Online]. Available: https://immersivelrn.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Measuring-the-Effects-of-Augmented-Reality-on-Learner-Motivation-and-Achievement-aPPLICATIONS.pdf
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Microsoft Education, 2020. [Online]. Available: https://educationblog.microsoft.com/en-us/2020/09/study-augmented-reality-increases-student-learning-engagement/