Developing Physics Experiments Using Augmented Reality Game-Based Learning Approach: A Pilot Study in Primary School

• Published in: Computers (Basel) Vol. 10; no. 10; p. 126
• Main Authors: Zafeiropoulou, Maria, Volioti, Christina, Keramopoulos, Euclid, Sapounidis, Theodosios
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basel MDPI AG 01.10.2021
• Subjects: Astronomy; Augmented reality; Collaboration; Design; Designers; Education; Experiments; game-based learning; Games; Inquiry method; Learning; Physical sciences; Physics; primary school; Problem solving; Real time; Skills; Smartphones; Students; Teaching; usability
• ISSN: 2073-431X; 2073-431X
• DOI: 10.3390/computers10100126

The augmented reality game-based learning (ARGBL) approach is an advantageous pathway for the development and enhancement of teaching and learning processes. To this end, this paper presents the design and development of an ARGBL application for the implementation of physics experiments in the fifth grade of a Greek primary school. The purpose of the ARGBL system is twofold: to educate and entertain. For this reason, a treasure hunt game was implemented, which allows students to interact with a digital world and to manipulate virtual objects with the use of an augmented reality (AR) device. Then, according to the instructions, students have to collect all the materials to conduct the AR educational experiment. Overall, the evaluation of the system’s usability by 17 users (both students and teachers) was very promising, indicating that the ARGBL application has the potential to be an easy-to-use educational tool for improving not only the teaching of physics experiments in primary school but also the learning process, by positively affecting the students’ motivation and engagement.