In the past decade, the use of AR and VR in the educational setting has continued to increase. It helps educators create an immersive learning environment. This actively engages learners for a better understanding of concepts. These technologies will be more prevalent as distance learning becomes mainstream.
Except for a smartphone or a tablet, most augmented reality experiences do not require any additional special hardware. Used properly, AR becomes a powerful tool that makes distance learning more effective.
How to Enhance Distance Learning Through Augmented Reality
Distance learning poses many challenges for both learners and educators. For students, access to hands-on experiences is quite limited. For educators, presenting lessons and engaging with learners pose many difficulties. Both these challenges can be addressed using augmented reality. Here are a few ways augmented reality can be used for distance learning:
1. AR Brings Lessons to Life
Through AR, lessons come to life and learning becomes more dynamic. Multidimensional images and riveting animations enhance lectures and capture the interest of learners. These creative presentations spark curiosity and drive kids to take part in lessons more proactively.
2. AR Makes Abstract Concepts More Concrete
Students gain a deeper understanding of abstract concepts with AR apps. Chemical reactions and biological processes become easier to grasp through video simulations. 3D renderings of the earth’s layers or the human DNA present more tangible representations for better learning.
3. AR Enables Simulations
Learning is more effective when concepts are put to practical use. AR makes this possible through simulations of processes or procedures. In biology, for instance, students learn about cell structures even if they don’t have access to a microscope and other laboratory tools.
4. AR Makes Virtual Field Trips Possible
Even with distance learning, field trips, and educational tours are possible through AR. Kids can tour museums, investigate volcanic eruptions, and explore planets across the universe. AR also creates multisensory experiences that further enrich learning.
The Future of Learning
Powerful technologies will play a key role in developing the 21st-century skills of the younger generation. As such, expect more innovators to develop apps and tools that can integrate AR and VR in curriculum delivery.
MindLabs, for one, has harnessed augmented reality technology to develop an app that teaches STEM to kids in a more engaging manner. The MindLabs: Energy and Circuits app can be downloaded and used anywhere with its matching set of playing cards. The app offers kids an interesting way to learn about electricity and circuitry. It also enables them to freely explore concepts and build unique circuits safely even with little or no supervision.
Indeed, the future of learning is one empowered by technology that fosters experiential learning. It is something all of us can look forward to with excitement.
