Augmented Reality | ICTinFLTE TR-UZ

SEE LANGUAGE COME ALIVE WITH AR

Augmented Reality and English Language Teaching

Augmented Reality (AR) is a cutting-edge technology that seamlessly blends the physical and digital worlds, providing users with an enhanced visual experience by overlaying virtual objects in real time. By leveraging advanced graphic computing and object recognition technologies, AR enables the integration of digital information into users' real-world surroundings (Ruan & Jeong, 2012). It offers a dynamic and interactive learning environment where learners can engage with virtual elements and gain a deeper understanding of various phenomena.

There are two types of the AR applications: the marker-based AR applications and the location-based AR applications (Siltanen, 2012). Marker-based AR utilizes QR codes and barcodes to trigger the overlay of digital content onto physical objects (Ruan & Jeong, 2012). On the other hand, location-based AR relies on Global Positioning System (GPS) technology to deliver virtual information based on users' real-time geographical location. Notably, location-based AR experiences, exemplified by popular games like Pokemon Go, leverage GPS data to create immersive learning environments that align with learners' physical surroundings (Wu et al., 2013).

In the realm of language teaching and learning, AR has gained significant traction as a powerful tool for both classroom-based and outdoor learning experiences. Its unique ability to blend virtual and real elements provides language learners with unparalleled opportunities to engage with multimedia content, interact with virtual information in authentic contexts, and cultivate a deeper understanding of the target language (Cheng & Tsai, 2013). Contextualized EFL learning, which emphasizes the application of language skills in real-life situations, is greatly enhanced by AR technology, as it facilitates seamless interactions between virtual and physical environments, thereby promoting effective language acquisition (Hsu, 2017). Additionally, AR has demonstrated its potential to heighten learner motivation, foster curiosity, and foster collaborative and interactive learning experiences (Bacca et al., 2014; Huang et al., 2016).

In conclusion, AR offers a compelling platform for language learning, enabling learners to bridge the gap between virtual and real worlds, engage with immersive multimedia content, and significantly enrich their language learning experiences. By incorporating AR into EFL education, teachers can create engaging and interactive learning environments that promote contextualized language learning and empower learners to develop a deeper proficiency in the target language.

There are several Augmented Reality (AR) tools available that can be utilized to create engaging language teaching content. Here are some popular AR tools for language teaching:

Augmented Reality Tools

Adobe Aero

Adobe Aero is an augmented reality (AR) authoring and publishing tool developed by Adobe. It allows users to create immersive AR experiences and bring their digital content to life in the real world. With Adobe Aero, teachers can design and place 3D objects, animations, and interactive elements within their physical environment using a simple and intuitive interface. Using Aero, they can import assets from Adobe Creative Cloud applications like Photoshop and Dimension, or create their own 3D objects and animations directly within the tool. It offers a range of features such as interactive triggers, animation timelines, and realistic lighting effects to enhance the AR experience. Adobe Aero offers exciting possibilities for creating interactive and engaging learning materials. Teachers can use this tool to design AR experiences that allow students to explore language-related content, such as vocabulary, grammar, or cultural elements, in a more immersive and interactive way. Adobe Aero is not only a powerful tool for creating AR content but also provides options for sharing and distributing your creations. Teachers can publish your AR experiences to the web or view them on supported devices like smartphones and tablets.

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Arloopa

Arloopa is an augmented reality (AR) application that transforms learning experiences by blending real-world elements with digital overlays. Commonly used for interactive experiences in education, Arloopa enables teachers to create AR flashcards that students interact with by pointing their devices at a card. For example, a flashcard labeled "cat" might display a 3D cat on the screen, reinforcing vocabulary visually and contextually. Using AR to show vocabulary in context—such as placing virtual objects in a “real” room to demonstrate prepositions like “under the table”—makes abstract language concepts more concrete. Teachers can also have students write their own stories and then use AR to bring these scenes to life, adding an engaging, creative dimension to language learning. Grammar, often challenging for students, can also be illustrated with AR visuals. For example, students can use Arloopa to visualize verb tenses, like an animated character running to represent the present continuous (“is running”) versus standing still for the present simple (“runs”). This visual approach helps clarify complex ideas and supports students’ understanding of grammatical structures.

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Zappar

Zappar is an augmented reality (AR) platform that allows users to create and experience interactive AR content. With Zappar, you can bring static images, products, packaging, or physical spaces to life by overlaying them with digital elements, such as videos, animations, 3D models, and interactive buttons. It seamlessly blends the physical and digital realms, providing a unique and captivating experience. Using the Zappar app, teachers and stundets can scan specially designed triggers, such as QR codes or specific images, to activate AR experiences. Once scanned, Zappar overlays the real-world view on your device with interactive digital elements. These elements can include animations, videos, games, 3D models, and more. What sets Zappar apart is its user-friendly interface that allows teachers to easily create their own AR experiences. They don't need any coding skills to get started. Zappar provides a range of customizable templates and tools to help them bring their ideas to life. By using Zappar, teachers can discover new dimensions of storytelling, as well. Teachers can develop AR stories or scenarios where students can interact with characters and objects to practice their language skills. For example, students can follow a story and answer questions or engage in dialogue with virtual characters to improve their listening and speaking abilities.

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Blippar

Blippar is an augmented reality platform that allows users to create interactive AR experiences. With Blippar, users can build AR content by leveraging features such as image recognition, 3D modeling, animations, and interactivity. The platform provides a user-friendly interface and a range of tools to help users design and develop engaging AR experiences. By uploading images or objects to the Blippar platform, teachers can create digital overlays and interactive elements that enhance the real-world environment when viewed through a compatible mobile device. Blippar's platform offers customization options, allowing teachers to tailor the AR experiences to their specific needs. It supports the integration of multimedia elements like images, videos, audio, and interactive buttons, providing a dynamic and engaging user experience.

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Sketchfab

Sketchfab is a platform that allows users to upload, share, and explore 3D models and virtual reality (VR) content. It provides a wide range of 3D models created by artists, designers, and developers from around the world. While Sketchfab itself is not specifically designed for language teaching, it offers various opportunities for incorporating 3D models into language learning activities. Teacher can use Sketchfab to find and showcase 3D models related to various topics such as cultural artifacts, historical landmarks, or architectural wonders and students can explore the models, interact with them, and learn. Teachers can also create virtual tours or presentations using Sketchfab's VR functionality. They can design tours of specific locations, providing information and descriptions in the target language. The 3D models can be also used as a prompt for storytelling and language skills activities.

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Assemblr

Assemblr is an augmented reality (AR) content creation platform that allows users to create and share their own AR experiences. Assembl offers a visual drag-and-drop editor that allows teachers to easily place and position 3D objects, animations, images, and other interactive elements within their AR scenes. Assembl also provides a diverse library of pre-built 3D models, animations, sound effects, and other digital assets that users can choose from to enhance their AR scenes. These assets cover a wide range of categories, including nature, animals, objects, characters, and more. Teachers can bring their AR scenes to life by adding animations and interactions to objects within the scene. This includes creating object movements, triggering audio or visual effects, enabling user interactions like tapping or swiping, and incorporating dynamic behaviors. Assemblr supports multiple platforms, including mobile devices (iOS and Android) and web browsers. This allows users to easily share their created AR experiences with others through the Assembl mobile app or by embedding them on websites. Assemblr provides a user-friendly platform for creating and sharing AR content, making it accessible and adaptable for various language teaching contexts. Teachers can create AR scenes in Assemblr that feature different objects or vocabulary items. Assemblr allows users to create interactive narratives and stories using AR elements. Teachers can design AR scenes that represent different story settings or scenarios to engage students in storytelling and role-playing activities in the target language.

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CoSpaces Edu

CoSpaces Edu is a virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) platform that allows users to create and explore immersive virtual worlds. It is designed specifically for educational purposes, offering a unique and engaging way to learn and collaborate. With CoSpaces Edu, users can easily build their own 3D virtual environments using a drag-and-drop interface. They can create interactive scenes, add objects, import 3D models, customize the environment, and even program interactive behaviors using block-based coding. This empowers educators and students to create their own virtual experiences, ranging from simple interactive presentations to complex interactive simulations. Teachers can create immersive stories or role-playing scenarios in CoSpaces Edu. They can use the platform to design virtual scenes, populate them with characters, and create dialogue interactions. CoSpaces Edu enables teachers to create virtual tours of real-world locations or cultural sites related to the target language. Students can explore these environments, interact with objects, and learn about different cultures and languages in an immersive manner. they can create virtual flashcards, matching games, or quizzes where students have to identify objects or translate words.

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Quiver Masks

Quiver Masks is an augmented reality (AR) app that allows users to bring coloring pages to life by turning them into interactive 3D masks. It combines the traditional activity of coloring with the excitement of AR technology, creating an engaging and immersive experience for users, especially children. Teachers start by printing out coloring pages provided by Quiver or downloading them from the app. These coloring pages feature various characters and designs that are specifically designed to come to life with AR. Students can color the printed pages using traditional coloring tools like markers or colored pencils. After coloring the page, users launch the Quiver Masks app on their mobile device. Using the device's camera, they scan the colored page within the app. Once the page is scanned, the colored characters on the page transform into interactive 3D masks on the screen. Users can see the characters come to life, move around, and respond to their interactions. Users can interact with the 3D masks by tapping or swiping on the screen. The masks may make sounds, display animations, or even respond to facial movements using the device's front-facing camera.

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Merge Cube

The Merge Cube is an augmented reality (AR) tool that allows users to hold and interact with virtual objects in the physical world. It is a small cube-shaped device that works in conjunction with a smartphone or tablet. The Merge Cube uses AR technology to project digital content onto the surface of the cube when viewed through a compatible mobile device. By simply pointing the device's camera at the Merge Cube, users can see and interact with a variety of 3D objects, games, and educational experiences. The Merge Cube is designed to be used as an educational tool, providing immersive and engaging experiences for students in various subjects, including science, math, history, and language learning. It offers a hands-on approach to learning, allowing students to manipulate and explore virtual objects and concepts in a tangible way. To use the Merge Cube, users need to download the Merge Cube app onto their compatible mobile device. The app provides access to a range of Merge Cube experiences and content. By holding the cube in their hand and looking through the device's screen, users can see the virtual objects projected onto the cube's surface and interact with them using touch gestures.

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References:

Bacca, J., Baldiris, S., Fabregat, R., & Graf, S. (2014). Augmented reality trends in education: A systematic review of research and applications. Journal of Educational Technology & Society,17(4), 133–149.
Chen, C. M., & Li, Y. L. (2010). Personalised context-aware ubiquitous learning system for supporting effective English vocabulary learning. Interactive Learning Environments,18(4), 341–364.
Chen, M. P., Wang, L. C., Zou, D., Lin, S. Y., Xie, H., & Tsai, C. C. (2022). Effects of captions and English proficiency on learning effectiveness, motivation and attitude in augmented-reality-enhanced theme-based contextualized EFL learning. Computer Assisted Language Learning, 35(3), 381-411.
Cheng, K.-H., & Tsai, C.-C. (2013). Affordances of augmented reality in science learning: Suggestions for future research. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 22(4), 449–462.
Hsu, T. C. (2017). Learning English with augmented reality: Do learning styles matter?. Computers & Education, 106, 137–149.
Ibanez, M. B., & Delgado-Kloos, C. (2018). Augmented reality for STEM learning: A systematic review. Computers & Education, 123, 109–123.
Ruan, K., & Jeong, H. (2012). An augmented reality system using QR code as marker in Android Smartphone. 2012 Spring Congress on Engineering and Technology (S-CET).
Siltanen, S. (2012). Theory and applications of marker-based augmented reality. VTT Science 3, Finland: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland.
Wu, H.-K., Lee, S. W.-Y., Chang, H.-Y., & Liang, J.-C. (2013). Current status, opportunities and challenges of augmented reality in education. Computers & Education, 62,41–49.