Augmented Reality
(AHG-munt-d REE-al-ih-tee)
Radioactive
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented reality is a combination of software and hardware that allows learners to use a device (e.g., smartphone, tablet, laptop) to scan their environment and view or interact with objects on their devices that are not physically present.
Other Common Names
Other common names for augmented reality include:
- AR
Key Properties
- Allows you to look at live images through a device (such as a smartphone or tablet), which overlays (augments) additional images
- Allows for real-time interaction of things that aren’t really there
Resources From The Train Like a Champion Blog
Insights from What's Your Formula? that ARe not in any way Augmented
- "When I was working through my list of radioactive elements, I was initially considering an element called “shiny objects” that would have included all the new technologies people get excited about but aren’t necessarily the most appropriate for learning. In the words of my father: “You don’t need to bring an elephant into class to teach the color gray.” After discussing this with some colleagues, I was persuaded to focus on one specific technology—augmented reality—that could fall into the broader category of “shiny objects” (a lot of the pros and cons of adopting AR should be kept in mind when you think of adopting other technologies that emerge in the near future)."
- "It can replace (boring) slides and (bulky) materials. For example, I’ve worked with a tire manufacturer who spends time training learners on how to identify why a tire may have come out of service. In traditional training settings, this can be accomplished by either showing a series of PowerPoint slides and having learners examine what they see, or by examining actual scrap tires that are brought into the training environment. AR would allow learners to point their device at a point in the room to overlay images of damaged tires and determine the cause of damage."
- "Several years ago, I stayed at a hotel that had developed an AR experience where you could stand in a certain spot in the lobby, point your phone at that spot, and get a photo taken with an AR-generated celebrity. This concept can be used around offices as well by creating markers where employees can aim their device and be welcomed by AR-generated video (perhaps even of the CEO or other high-profile leaders). This can work for orientation to different physical spaces around the office, identifying where the copy paper or extra pens are kept, or introducing key policies and procedures."
CLOSELY RELATED ELEMENTS
Adult Learning
Adult learners want their professional development experiences to be relevant. Falling in love with AR-technology without deploying it in relevant ways that enhance the learning can be a turn-off to many learners.
Gamification
By its nature, augmented reality brings to life an element of fantasy—providing an overlay of something that’s not actually in your classroom. Adding other game-like elements to your AR experience such as points, a narrative, content unlocking, a quest, or teamwork can bring additional engagement into your program.
Learning Objectives Taxonomy
Learning objectives exist to keep your program tight and focused. Any activity that you integrate into your program—whether high or low tech—should help your learners do something very specific.
Learning Boosts
Learning boosts enhance learner retention, so adding an element of cool technology could offer a fresh take on a strategy that keeps your content in front of your learners in the days, weeks, and months after they’ve completed your session.