Journal 3

Raphael, R. (2011). Abracadabra!--it's augmented reality!. Learning and Leading, 38(8), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/digital-edition-june-july-2011.aspx


The article "Abracadabra-It's Augmented Reality!" written by Raphael Raphael discusses the fact that technology has progressed so much that something called augmented reality or "AR" now exists. In this augmented reality, through the internet we are able to see things in ways we never have been able to before. The article also discusses how this recent technological advance is something that is slowly starting to find its place in education, and the author seems to believe that this is rightfully so. He states that he believes that education is in fact the best place for the use of augmented reality as it empowers the student. Some examples cited are a create your own pop up book, or creating narratives which are accompanied by digital creations. Furthermore, the potential for the technology is only growing and it is projected that in the near future, augmented reality will be showing up on mobile apps, social networks, virtual desktops, and used in virtual training. As augmented reality improves, then so does its potential to be used in an educational setting.








Do i see myself using the technology of augmented reality as a teacher?


There are many ways in which I can see the benefits of using augmented reality in the classroom. One way that really stands out to me is while teaching history. Many people find learning about history to be uninteresting. I cant think of a better way to change this thought short of going to the historical place than augmented reality. Even though the students may not actually be at the historical site, through augmented reality the possibility of seeing things as if they were there exists. They would be able to look through things and see things from different angles or perspectives, or even get a closer look at things. This is just one way in which i can see augmented reality being a useful tool in an educational setting.


Is the expansion of technology such as augmented reality to other means such as mobile apps also of potential benefit in an educational setting?


I think if used in the correct manner, then there is no reason that the use of augmented reality can't be equally beneficial being used on devices such as cell phones. In fact being more widely available has the potential to have it used more regularly and easily, and not just in a class room. It could be used for homework or research. With technology constantly growing it is important that educators embrace it and use it to their advantage. The use of augmented reality is just one example of a technological advance that has great educational potential.