As of today, online learning is the new norm globally due to the pandemic. Social distancing has made it difficult for teachers to conduct physical classes which leaves e-learning a viable option. This shift poses as many challenges as it provides benefits. Lack of interactivity, difficulty in presenting an example and such. Sure, online learning sounds futuristic but it lacks a ‘human touch’ that keeps the students engaged. Not to worry, Augmented Reality might have a solution for these challenges.
Here are 4 reasons why teachers should consider AR in their online classes:
- Experiment in a safe space
One of the most anticipated activities students look forward to in schools is doing experiments. From mixing chemicals to cutting open a frog, experiments are something students can only do exclusively at schools under a teacher’s supervision. However, now that schools have been closed and classes are taking place online, doing these experiments seem too complicated to do. Augmented Reality is able to bring back that interest in students.
With a 3D model on their phone screen, students can interact with these models and mix the chemicals themselves. Say they want to mix sodium with water. In real life, it could be dangerous as the chemical reaction can cause an explosion but by using AR, students can still see the reaction with zero risks on themselves.
2. Improved student engagement
Comparing a picture of an octopus in a book with a 3D model of an octopus that comes alive through a smartphone screen, which of these two ideas would attract an average child? Most children would pick the octopus that appears out of the picture. Why? Because they can see it move around. With Augmented Reality, the octopus may even dance if it is programmed that way.
Imagine bringing this into the classroom. While learning about the respiratory system, students who can see the lungs expanding and contracting would be more intrigued by the subject compared to those who are given a still picture. A 3-D model that can be viewed and be interacted with enhances their learning experience especially when they can see the shape of the lungs, the airflow and the bronchi behaviour when it expands or contracts.
This will not only attract the student’s interest but keep them engaged.
3. Budget saving (compared to a model)
In school science labs, Human Anatomy Torso Models are available as a teaching aid. The problem comes from having only one and everyone has to take turns. What if there is a way for everyone to get their own model? One model costs about RM100-RM500 depending on the quality and size so how is that possible? With AR, of course.
See, everyone has their own smartphones nowadays. All they have to do is download an app to view Augmented Reality and they are set. Teachers can create their own Augmented Reality Teaching Aid and tell their students to view it.
Credits to galaxymed
4. Accessible anywhere
As long as you have a smartphone and an internet connection, your 3D model of a heart can be viewed anywhere you want. In the library, at a café, even at home, it is accessible. No more confusing yourself with how a Rafflesia looks from above when all you have is a picture of it from the side. Simply scan the picture on your phone and a Rafflesia model will pop up.
Here at Arleta, we want to make Augmented Reality available to all. We make it our mission is to familiarize people with Augmented Reality in their daily activities be it in education, problem-solving or entertainment through our platform, Arleta AR.
Arleta’s biggest mission is for everyone to experience the world through Augmented Reality. Download Arleta AR on Google Playstore now and explore the world with Arleta: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.SayapProduction.ArletaAR&hl=en&gl=US