It has been proven that pictures speak more than words. The present era is of moving pictures and as the dimensions and perspectives are altering, virtual reality is leading the world today.
The digital age is dependent on artificial intelligence to a large extent. If the potentialities of AI are correctly utilised in the learning environment, then it leads to a revolutionary transformation of the education sector.
What is AR?
AR or Augmented Reality utilises a real-world setting to create an experience. AR can be accessed using just smartphones and does not require many gadgets. The major highlight of AR is that it stimulates both the real world and the virtual world and the users can control their presence in the environment. Thus AR is a good combination of both physical and digital worlds where interactions are made in real-time.
What is VR?
VR which is extended as Virtual Reality is an immersive digital experience using digital tools. VR enhances a fictional existence and the VR users are controlled by a system. The immersive simulations of the VR technology enable users to interact with a virtual setting that resembles actuality. The perceptions are made possible through the simulation of the user's senses.
The features of AR/VR
Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality, although differ in their formats, give some unique experiences, which can be listed as the salient features of both the technologies.
Let's see what they are:
Enhanced learning experience - Real experiences usually remain in memory longer than traditional lectures. The 3D learning environment helps the learners get an in-depth understanding of concepts easily. This motivates the learning experience and facilitates collaborative learning.
Engaged learning atmosphere - The immersive ability of AR/VR makes learners become involved in the learning process. Gamification of learning concepts by blending them with technologies gives rise to a unique learning atmosphere.
Immersive training experiences - AR/VR stimulates an immersive environment that aids training sessions. This ensures a safer environment and makes it possible to virtually access anything or any place that may be impossible in real life.
Explore Virtual environments - Expeditions are made possible through factual environments both in AR and VR. Learning becomes enjoyable and interactive because of the presence of a virtual atmosphere.
If we are encountered with the question of how future classrooms will be, we can undoubtedly say that they are AR/VR classrooms. Both AR and VR make visualisation an actualisation. The learners are able to move through fabricated experiences in AR/VR.
Let us just list out the major accentuates that AR and VR offer to classroom learning:
Interaction - AR/VR facilitates an interactive learning environment. Rather than only teaching the subjects, both the instructors and learners get a chance to feel the topic which are great ways to improve their mutual interactions.
Motivation - AR/VR enables learners to explore and experience what is being taught and thus makes them inspired and more engaged in learning.
Cognitive development - Learning concepts via AR/VR technologies helps in the improvement of learners' information processing and perceptual abilities.
Communication enhancement - AR/VR transforms communication to a different level and makes the learning process much easier for both teachers and learners.
Soft skill development -Interpersonal and teamwork skills can be enhanced through AR/VR technologies. This gives children an opportunity to think and act creatively and critically.
Although there exists a terminological conflict between AR and VR, both are used interchangeably in practical terms. Augmented reality focuses on setting virtual elements in the real world, whereas virtual reality aims at recreating a real-life setting.
With the advent of Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence, both AR and VR have a prominent role in transforming classroom education and can be considered the future classrooms for generations to come.
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