Enhanced learning experience using augmented reality
Bridging fiction and reality, bringing the unreal into the real world, has been a longtime human fantasy. Recent advances in technology have made this dream a reality. Moreover, these technological innovations have the potential to engage students in more effective learning experiences as compared to traditional approaches, by making the content more interactive, dynamic and attractive.
Augmented reality (AR) is a cutting-edge visualization technology that allows the users of smart devices to obtain a digitally enhanced view of the real world. AR adds layers of digital information like images, sounds, videos or 3D content over real objects and locations using the camera and additional sensors within a Smartphone or tablet. Hence, a composite view is created in which the real scene seen by the user and the virtual scene generated by the device are merged together.
In this workshop we aim to give brief insights into Paul Milgram's Reality-Virtuality Continuum as well as discuss how technology can make a bridge between the real and virtual world in the classroom. This workshop will provide the opportunity for the participants to experience VR and AR through hands-on activities based on apps developed for both Android and IoS devices.
Workshop overview: Overview of VR and AR technology in learning and education Hands-on experience of AR apps and their possible uses in education; Panel discussions and Future directions. Basic computer skills and usage of mobile applications is desirable.
Dr. Dana Crăciun
craciun.dana@e-uvt.ro
Dr. Dana Craciun is a lecturer at the Teacher Training Department, from the West University of Timișoara, Romania. She graduated both the Faculty of Physics and the Faculty of Mathematics from the West University of Timisoara and obtained her PhD in Physics as well as further specializations in Theoretical Physics, Applied Informatics and Educational Management, all from the aforementioned institution. She holds lectures on Physics Didactics, Computer Assisted Instruction and also supervises the training of future physics teachers. Her research interests focus on biophysics and bioinformatics, being author of several ISI articles. Recently, her research activity has focused on the integration of ICT in science education and how emerging technologies influence the role of the teacher in class, how to effectively integrate teaching methods used in humanities and arts into science education. She participated in local and international projects and organized various non-formal activities for students within the Teacher Training Department, such as "Physics, an eternal story" and the summer school "English plus Science".
