Enhancing AR Learning through Immersive Technology

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Augmented Reality (AR) technology has the potential to revolutionize the education sector by offering a unique and immersive learning experience that combines real-world elements with computer-generated sensory experience. Engaging and interactive, Step Into Biology is at the forefront of this technology, yet simple to set up and cost-effective to use. No headsets are required, just one or more iOS devices and a small classroom footprint is all you need to excite students with this multiplayer, collaborative experience. Push the chairs back, log into the app, and take your students on a virtual field trip that is more fun than their favorite video games.

In addition to generating excitement in the classroom, Step Into Biology has been developed to respond to the growing body of research that indicates augmented reality (AR) has significant pedagogical benefits for both students and teachers. It also seamlessly works for home study and remote learning, making it a valuable tool for students worldwide.

Increase Engagement and Interactivity

In a study conducted by Microsoft Education, 92% of teachers reported that AR helped to increase student engagement, and 87% reported that it improved their ability to learn. Step Into Biology focuses on these enhanced learning outcomes by providing visual and interactive aids, that help students understand complex concepts with less friction and more curiosity. Additionally, students using AR had a 22% higher improvement in their test scores compared to students who did not use AR, and SIB's Quiz mode allows students to test their own knowledge at their own pace to reinforce critical concepts prior to testing.

Supports Multimodal Learning

AR technology supports multimodal learning by providing visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning experiences. For instance, students can use AR apps to explore virtual objects, hear audio instructions, and use hand gestures to interact with virtual elements. This type of learning experience caters to different learning styles, making it easier for students to learn and remember information.

Encourages Collaboration for Students and Educators

AR also increases teacher effectiveness, allowing educators to deliver more effective and customized lessons by providing them with the tools to create learning experiences that align with their state curriculum and the NGSS. This expansion of ideas and classroom materials extends Step Into Biology's ability within the classroom as a robust, far-reaching teaching aid.

Effective Communication

Numerous studies spotlight the improved collaboration and communication that AR-based classroom software promotes and state that students who used AR in their group work reported higher levels of collaboration and communication compared to students who did not use AR. AR can promote collaboration and communication among students, as it allows them to work together on virtual projects and activities.

Early adopters of AR in the classroom report significantly improved learning experiences for students and teachers. Step Into Biology integrates AR's newest capabilities in the app and benefits from the continual involvement of a multidisciplinary advisory board of educators, scientists, and technologists.

Sources

Microsoft Education Whitepaper titled "Augmented Reality for K-12 Classrooms: A Review of Research, Applications, and Opportunities". The whitepaper is based on a survey conducted by Microsoft Education. You can find the whitepaper on the Microsoft Education website.

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