Google Glass, the most vivid example of augmented reality (AR) application, is yet to become a ‘layman thing’. But, thanks to the developers, augmented reality applications have become easily available for smartphone users. Right from utility to games, not a single app genre is left unoccupied. Currently, though, it is the educational AR apps that have become popular amongst users. AR apps have made educational content more interesting and interactive. However, among the many applications, the handy ones that have made it to the top five are listed below.
1 Spacecraft 3D (Free)
Developed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, this free application enables students to learn about spacecrafts that are used for exploration of our solar system. To use this application, first, print out target codes of spacecrafts. The target codes can then be scanned by students on their respective devices. As soon as the codes are scanned, the spacecraft becomes a 3D model. It is an extremely intuitive app for students who are keen about space technology.
2 Zooburst (Free)
ZooBurst is a neat, easy-to-handle application meant for elementary level students. It allows users to customize digital storybooks by providing them with a library of images. Teachers can even add speech balloons and Adobe Flash animations to make stories more appealing for their students. The best part of this application is that it even allows students to be part of the story with the help of a webcam. Students can even use ZooBurst to create attention-grabbing presentations.
3 Fetch! Lunch Rush (Free)
Developed by PBS, this fun application comes in extremely handy for teachers and parents who are trying to make mathematics interesting for their kids. Fetch! Lunch Rush is a 3D application which helps students to learn mathematics through visualization. Through the smartphone’s camera, this app places graphics on real-world surroundings. It then uses the real-world situations to teach addition and subtraction to students.
4 Google Sky Map (Free)
An Augmented Reality Application that makes astronomy interesting is hard to stay away from. Here comes Google Sky Map, an AR app that helps you in direct identification of stars and constellations. With this app, students do not need to gaze at books every time they wish to locate a star. Users just need to point their smartphone in direction of the sky, and they will automatically get identification of any star, satellite or constellation.
5 Planet Finder
If you are looking for a virtual astronomy compass, then you should have Planet Finder in your smartphone. Besides providing users with 3D projection of planets, it also gives them real time information about celestial bodies. All you need to do is install the app and launch it. Within seconds, you are surrounded by the planets. You can navigate through stars simply by touching the spaceship. A paid version of the app is also available which comes with additional features.
Augmented Reality is a technology that is still in its experimental phase. But, this technological trend has already rendered many intuitive applications. With time as this technology gets better, educational AR apps will surely enhance interaction between educators and learners.
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