Augmented reality, the future of contextual mobile learning

Purpose - This study aims to show the relevance of augmented reality (AR) in mobile learning for the 21st century. With AR, any real-world environment can be augmented by providing users with accurate digital overlays. AR is a promising technology that has the potential to encourage learners to explore learning materials from a totally new perspective. Besides, the advancements made in information technology further broaden the scope for educational AR applications. Furthermore, the proliferation of wireless mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets is also introducing AR into the mobile domain. Design/methodology/approach - This discussion paper gives an insight of the different potential fields of application of AR and eventually proposes an AR application that will give a completely different learning experience for learners. This AR mobile application will not only provide learners with supplementary information but will also assist lecturers in their teaching process. There are certain concepts in computer science at the tertiary level that are at times difficult for learners to understand using the traditional classroom approach. Through this AR application developed, the learners are able to see what is happening and experience a different form of learning where the focus is more on "learning by doing" and on the ability of visualizing the complete set of steps involved for a particular operation. Finally what is proposed is a generic framework/process for the development of AR applications for learning purposes. Findings - The AR application developed and tested has proved to be helpful in understanding complex concepts of computer science that average students have much difficulty in understanding. Through AR, learning has been brought to a new dimension where the students can easily visualize what is happening and easily understand complex concepts. This low-cost system that has been proposed can track and detect both markerless and marker-based images. A number of experiments have also been carried out to determine a set of best practices for the development and use of such AR applications. Originality/value - Learners have been able to have a more interactive and enriching learning experience through two-dimensional and three-dimensional digital augmentations. The AR mobile application has been enhancing the cognitive skills of learners through enabling them to scan images from printed materials with their smartphones. Then, informative digital augmentation has been overlaid in real time on the mobile screen with the image preview still in the background.