2.3 Learning Activity 2: Selecting AR Apps for Classroom Use

Periodic Table of iOS Apps for Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality — The New Periodic Table of iOS AR and VR apps by Mark Anderson and Steve Bambury is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

There are so many different AR apps that are available and more being released weekly. How can you find the best app to use in your classroom? What should you look for in an AR app?

This learning activity will give the opportunity to evaluate an AR app based on multiple criteria to determine whether to use it in your classroom. The goal is to find an app that you would possibly use in YOUR classroom with YOUR students to enhance YOUR teaching.

Before venturing off into web searches, start with these lists of AR apps cultivated by education technology experts:

Learning Activity Instructions

Choose one AR app from the websites above or one you find by another method and explore the app. Take note of the criteria listed below while you are using the app and report your results on the AR App Evaluation Form. The results of this form will be a collaboratively built database of educator-vetted AR resources!

Ease of Use – Is the app easy to learn for everyone that will be using it – instructors, students, parents?
User Interface – Does the app work on all devices (computer, tablet and phone)? Does it work on all browsers? Does the app have a clear & simple interface? Is the app easy to navigate?
Cost – What is the cost structure of the app? – free? Is some content free then in order to open additional content you have to do so through in-app purchases? Is it a one time fee? Is it a annual subscription?
- Do you need to purchase additional materials for app to work (e.g. Merge Cube, t-shirt for Curiscope’s Virtuali-tee)
Type of AR Experience – Is the AR experience Content-based or Creation-based App (or both)?
Accessibility – Does this app allow all students to access the tool? Does it work with VoiceOver and Speak Selection?
Privacy – Often if an app is free, they make money by collecting and selling your data. Does the app collect location information, IP addresses or other personal information?
Impact on Learning & ISTE standards – Does the use of this app satisfy the ISTE student standards? Will this app help to make a positive impact on your students’ learning? Does the app promote creativity and imagination? Does the app provide opportunities to use higher order thinking skills?
Ability to Use in a Classroom – Will this app be able to be used in a classroom?
- Is the app applicable to a specific subject?
Support – Is there reliable tech support available? Is there a helpful tutorial?

Don’t forget to fill out the AR App Evaluation Form! When you complete the form, you will be able to see other course participants’ responses.