New high-tech trial paves way for innovative science learning in UK

At-Bristol, one of the leading science centres in UK, jump-starts a series of trials today to examine the use of augmented reality (AR) technology to maximise and foster learning of science among pupils. The trial is the first of its kind to be conducted with schools in the United Kingdom, boosting the potential of making significant contributions to the field of science education.

The breakthrough of using AR enhances pupils’ learning by contextualising subject information and personalising the experience to the individual’s exact profile, knowledge level and interests. In addition, it aims to ‘break’ the walls of science centres, and virtually transfer the information-rich environment into the classroom and vice versa. Therefore, learning benefits are maximised in ways difficult to afford by either schools or science centres alone.

“One of the goals of using AR in science learning is to maximize the impact of information that is provided when the motivation of the student is highest. Feedback from the students participating in the trials have been positive, students have shown to grasp the subject better while at the same time enjoying the novel and interactive learning experience.” Says Edel Fletcher, Physical Science Learning Officer.

The series of trial undertaken by At-Bristol seeks to find out the effectiveness of students’ learning on dynamics of lift in flight using AR. Using the functions of AR and an Aerofoil as subject, students are tasked to investigate how the forces involved in flight change as the angle of the wings makes with the oncoming air change.

Signals from students’ interaction with the exhibit will be read by a wearable mobile AR system and explanations of the physical phenomenon of how planes fly based on their interaction are projected virtually to a headpiece via the mobile AR system.

The series of trials is part of At-Bristol’s collaboration with the pan-European CONNECT project that seeks to explore, test, refine and demonstrate an innovative approach that crosscuts the boundaries between schools, museums, research centers (e.g. observatories) and science centres while involving students and teachers in extended episodes of playful learning.

“These trials mark the final phase of the CONNECT project and another positive infant step towards an ambitious comprehensive educational reform, which supports people’s learning in school and out of school. Informal learning is a key precursor to learning and plays a fundamental role in supplementing the formal learning, the key element to this project is to integrate everyday “free-choice” activities with the formal science curriculum” Says Fletcher.

The technology provides an ambient learning environment, which functions in two distinct and equally important educational modes: the museum and the school mode.

In the museum mode, a student sees the real exhibit as well as visual augmentations provided by the educator via the AR system. Through the school mode, students who do not have access to distant museums or science centres can share the experience of a visiting student via a 2-way audio-visual communication channel. The two groups of students can therefore interact with each other via an audio connection.