AR based Interactive Educational Tool for Life Sciences

Abstract

In many educational institutions, various methods have been applied to improve learning outcome. However, there is another latest technology for education, known as Augmented Reality (AR), which is not much in use currently. The augmented reality technology allows 3D models and visuals to be viewed in real world. This proposed project introduces an AR based educational interactive tool that would facilitate better learning of the subject matter, Life Sciences also known as Biology. The particular subject matter has been chosen because of the practical works involved and detailed understanding required. A study showed that students learn better using additional visuals. Therefore, this educational application would provide extra benefit to the students of Life Sciences. The application would allow students and instructors to view 3D models along with labels from the input 2D images extracted from textbooks. Additional animations and audio effects will be available for some 2D images such as throbbing effect on heart model. The users can also rotate, zoom in and zoom out the 3D model as per convenience. The system simply requires a smartphone to be operated by the users.