Bringing Augmented Reality Into the Online Classroom

Presenter(s)
Phylise Banner (American Public University System, US)
Shane Santiago (SBS Studios, US)
Session Information
November 4, 2010 - 2:25pm
Track: 
Technology and Emerging Learning Environments
Areas of Special Interest: 
Online Learning and Community Colleges
Major Emphasis of Presentation: 
Practical Application
Institutional Level: 
Course
Session Type: 
Individual Presentation
Location: 
Bonaire 6
Session Duration: 
35
Concurrent Session: 
5
Abstract
This session will explore the integration of augmented reality applications into online teaching and learning environments in order to more actively involve and engage students.
Extended Abstract
Interactive and web-based tools are nothing new when it comes to facilitating higher learning. But as the digital landscape evolves, spawning new trends and technologies, how does that affect engagement within the education sector? Augmented Reality, a technique that overlays content ("augments") onto a real-world physical environment, using tools already available to most students (webcams, microphones and mobile devices) creates a truly interactive experience for the user. Popular examples of augmented reality allows users to virtually try on clothes, play games, find just the right size box to use to mail or scan their location for the nearest pizza joint. By taking this cue from some of the worlds biggest marketers in engaging customers, the same approach can be used to engage students. Experiential and active learning, evolved from the passive experience, can allow students to quite literally reach out and engage with content — thus involving them in a much more visceral level. The more engaged the students become, the more opportunities for them to learn.
Lead Presenter
Phylise Banner is an information designer currently working in instructional design and distance education for the American Public University System. Throughout her career, she has worked closely with faculty, staff, students and IT managers to design, develop and deliver technology-based solutions across departments and disciplines. She regularly embraces opportunities to experiment with emerging technologies in order to best serve adult students at a distance, and to create communities of lifelong learners. Phylise presents regularly at regional and national technology and communication conferences on the topics of information design, experience design, creative hypertext, Web 2.0 applications, instructional design, information visualization and GIS technologies. She also teaches Digital Storytelling online for Empire State College. Her current research focuses on the use of Web 2.0 and information visualization applications to establish community and visual presence in the online classroom.