Course Reflection: Multimedia Tools in Education
Augmented Reality VS. Virtual Reality

“Augmented reality enhances experiences by adding virtual components such as digital images, graphics, or sensations as a new layer of interaction with the real world. Contrastingly, virtual reality creates its own reality that is completely computer generated and driven.”  This is a quote from the article, “Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality”.  It was interesting to read about the similarities and differences of both these technological advancements.  

I do not have any experience with either one, other than video games, but could see how this could easily be woven into instruction given the proper technology.  I’m always a little leery on the new technology craze.  While I feel it certainly enhances learning and adds the element of engagement, I am always concerned about how it takes away from standard communication skills.  Does it create a world where we no longer need to meet face to face and in the long run, how will that impact us as a society?  Then I watched the Ted Talk with Meron Gribetz and I appreciated how he explained that these new technologies can actually “extend the human experience” instead of distracting us.  

It then made me think about how it would connect with my classroom and science was the first subject that came to mind.  Whenever we have an experiment, it is typically done in groups or as a demo.  Students are always so eager to get their hands on the materials and learn from them.  By using augmented reality, I feel this would allow all students to experience the learning at the same time, rather than waiting their turn.  Another subject I thought augmented reality would be useful in is Social Studies.  I used to teach 5th Grade where we focused on American History, teaching from as early as the American Revolution through WWII.  Our world is very different now as it was during these times in history, but how engaging would it be to use augmented learning or even virtual reality to allow students to travel back in time and feel like they were actually living during those times?  They would be able to see first hand what the streets looked like, the way people dressed, what a typical home might look like, or even the local grocer.

Course Reflection: Throughout this course I have learned a lot of new ways to integrate technology into my classroom.  I have even tried a few of the ideas presented to us and my class was very receptive to it.  At times, I even asked some students what they thought of a project, the book trailer specifically, and used their feedback to enhance it.  They too, know that I’m still working through the glitches of technology, but I think that gives them a model of how even as adults, we are continually learning.