Application of Augmented Reality in Architectural Education

Augmented Reality (AR) has found many purposes over the years, and it is constantly being explored and improved. With its effective and attractive combination of virtual objects superimposed in a real surrounding, many have considered or already implemented AR technology as a part of developing education and learning process. With architecture being a visual and engineering discipline, this paper questions how beneficial would presenting and learning through AR be for architecture students. Two AR files have been created and tested by students, and then a survey has been carried out. The first file includes an exhibition space that questions the potential of a presentational tool in education, while the second file includes a green roof cross section questioning its usefulness as an education manual developing students' engineering and visual comprehension. The aim of this paper is to present the results in order to enhance the current architectural education system through AR, having in mind the benefits of a more pragmatic, interactive tool, as well as the disadvantages and limitations that come with it. It is concluded that the students praised the green roof file more, finding that they lack better understanding of engineering concepts, rather than needing AR as potential presentation tool. Possible outcomes could be an app-textbook or an online textbook containing different educational AR files helping students master subjects and prepare them for the exams.