The Impact of Integrating Augmented Reality in Pre-Kindergarten Classrooms

• In Event: Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications in Education

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) as an emerging technology has drawn attention from early childhood educators. To examine its effects, we introduced AR into pre-kindergarten classrooms. Students in the experimental classes accessed an AR picture book whereas students in control groups engaged with the same content in 2D picture books. The results revealed that children’s motivation to practice and learn literacy within experimental classes had improved significantly compared to control groups. Moreover, children in experimental classes had significantly more growth in letter recognition compared to controlled classes. Qualitative data collected via classroom observations and teacher interviews indicated that it is because AR provided students an innovative way of interacting with the learning content, thus enhanced students’ learning outcomes.

Authors

• Zilong Pan, The University of Texas at Austin

• Mary Frances Lopez, The University of Texas at Austin

• Min Liu, The University of Texas at Austin