What is augmented reality?

Augmented reality is using technology to superimpose information of the world we see. Augmented reality adds to the world that you normally see instead of attempting to replace it. The real world environment has elements that are augmented by computer generated elements. Artificial elements that can be manipulated are able to be overlaid onto the real world image.

What does augmented reality do?

The timely answer is an illustration that we are all familiar with. Pokemon GO. This highly popular game among young people and adults combines elements of the physical world and digitally manipulatable creations of a virtual reality. The two are combined using the camera from your phone and the Pokemon GO app, giving the user a way to manipulate virtual reality elements that appear in the physical world.

Augmented reality in the classroom.

There are currently an abundant number of apps that are using augmented reality in higher education courses. The use of augmented reality attempts to assist students with active learning by letting them enter into an immersive experience that was not previously available to them. This is one instance of technology that can model it's effective use for learning. Let's take a look at 5 examples.

AR ANATOMY

The nursing department at a university would be able to take advantage of this app by taking it's faculty and students on a journey inside the human body in a way not previously available. Simulation robots are currently the standard but this technology gives the advantage of looking at the human body in a way that cannot be replicated with a simulator.

SKYVIEW

The Skyview app is one that I currently use with my own children at home. It has the ability to show you the constellations and planet location along with their orbital paths. You can use your camera on your phone or tablet and point it at the sky taking advantage of digital overlays giving more information about what you are looking at.