Comparing Augmented Reality in industry and Technology Education: Exploring teacher views and research needs

Abstract

The use of Augmented Reality (AR) is a relatively new but significant trend in the educational landscape, including in technology education. The aim of this article is to discuss different perspectives on AR applications and describe the similarities, possibilities, and differences between them. Initial research in the field of technology education has shown numerous applications, especially since many tools, machines, and techniques must be learned in the hands-on practical sector, a discipline where AR is already being used in the industrial sector. However, there are even more applications in the industrial context. The resources utilized in these cases are often not available in the education sector, and the requirements for such systems differ between educational and industrial applications. When considering the specific application of AR in schools, it offers yet another perspective compared to educational research and industrial applications. Based on the results of an exploratory study among technology teachers in Lower Saxony, it becomes clear that costs, accessibility, and the lack (thus far) of appropriate learning materials are seen by teachers as the biggest challenges to effectively using AR in schools. It is noted that research and development projects in general technology education are necessary to effectively implement AR in technology education.