Augmented reality-based language and math learning applications for preschool children education

AR-supported learning methods are widely applied in preschool education. However, AR-based language and math learning applications for early childhood teaching activities are still limited. To bridge this gap and develop preschool children's capacities in learning English language and math, this paper puts forward two AR-based applications by fully considering children's developmental characteristics. Combining the designed cartoon picture cards, 3D models and cartoon videos, the developed AR applications can enrich children's learning experience in virtue of marker-based AR technique. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed AR applications, two tests are conducted to, respectively, investigate the usability and children's learning achievements. For the usability test, we, respectively, design two questionnaires with five-point Likert scales for preschool teachers and children to measure their attitudes toward AR applications. To analyze the children's learning achievement, 26 preschool children are randomly assigned to either experimental group or control group, which are, respectively, taught by using the AR-based method and traditional method. Statistical tests, such as paired sample t test and independent sample t test, are adopted to validate the effectiveness of AR-based method. The results demonstrate that (1) the AR applications can provide a fun learning environment and enable children to participate in the teaching activities; (2) the user interfaces of our AR applications are neat and easy to follow; (3) the preschool teachers present an inclination toward AR applications in teaching activities; (4) the designed AR applications benefit in mastering English language and math skills for preschool children.