When it comes to teaching and using new and upcoming technologies some teachers may find it overwhelming and not sure where to begin. Implementing new tools can be time-consuming and costly and this is often something teachers do not have a lot of extra to spare. Implementing a new tool for learning, therefore, needs to account for these limits (Earp, 2015). Although some Augmented reality (AR) tools can be costly, Google 3D allows for free and easy-to-use access to AR using Android and iOS devices.
Augmented reality (AR) is a tool that allows digitally created animations or graphics to be superimposed (overlaid on top) onto whatever flat surface the
(Original author content using Google 3D - Koala)
device's camera is facing (see photo example) (Microsoft, 2023). As a consequence, AR has the potential to change the way we teach content, how students learn, and make teaching even more creative and student-centred than previously possible (Amores-Valencia, 2022). Students can in a sense travel to the inside of a bacterium, see the size and movements of a hippopotamus, and explore the Sensō-ji temple in Tokyo, Japan. Google 3D has a fairly large library of 3D animations and graphics and the list is constantly expanding and will become increasingly better over time. Find a list of what's available now HERE.
As an example, (see video below) students in a stage 4 science class can students to interact with photosynthesis in AR using Google 3D (ACSSU225 & SC4-15CW) (Australian Curriculum, 2023; NESA, 2018). This could then potentially either be used with printed worksheets, as part of a presentation, or with homework.
(Original author content using Google 3D - 'Photosynthesis' - Link to YouTube video HERE)
Although there are other AR tools out there such as SkyView and Dinosaurs Everywhere!, these tools often require a purchase to access the full version, are specialised on one topic, or are only available on either just Android or iOS. As a consequence, these apps do not have the same accessibility as Google 3D does.
The main limitation of Google 3D is that the available graphics and animations are often fairly simple, and lack detail, see the video above as an example. Although the video showcases photosynthesis in a simple format and can be an excellent tool for younger learners, for more senior learners, many of these models will not be enough. However, Google 3D is growing and there is nothing to say that they will not build their models to suit more senior learners too (Amores-Valencia, 2022).
Overall, AR has the potential to make learning more immersive and engaging. With Google 3D, AR can be an excellent tool to give a creative and more memorable way for students to learn syllabus outcomes. Although current Google 3D animations may not always be enough for more advanced and senior learners, it can still be a great tool to use to complement other learning materials.
References
Amores-Valencia, A., Burgos, D., & Branch-Bedoya, J. W. (2022). Influence of motivation and academic performance in the use of Augmented Reality in education. A systematic review. Frontiers in Psychology, 13, 1011409–1011409. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1011409
Earp, J. (2015, September 16). Great tech can't replace poor teaching. Teacher Magazine. https://www.teachermagazine.com/au_en/articles/great-tech-cant-replace-poor-teaching
Microsoft. (2023, March 20). What is augmented reality or AR?. Microsoft - Dynamics 365 Guides. https://dynamics.microsoft.com/en-us/mixed-reality/guides/what-is-augmented-reality-ar/
NESA. (2018). Outcomes science years 7-10 syllabus (2018). New South Wales education standards authority. https://educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/portal/nesa/k-10/learning-areas/science/science-7-10-2018
Hi Pia,
Your blog post on augmented reality (AR) in the classroom is not only informative but also visually engaging. The layout and design of the page are well-organized and appealing, making it easy to navigate and understand the content. The use of images, videos, and clear headings effectively breaks up the text, contributing to the overall reader-friendly presentation.
In your discussion of Google 3D's potential to enhance learning and creativity, you've provided practical examples and connected them to the curriculum. I appreciate your focus on visual learning and would love to know more about how creativity is fostered through this technology. What specific aspects encourage students to think creatively and solve problems in unique ways?
Great post and wonderful…