Developing a Mobile Learning System in Augmented Reality Context

Abstract

In recent years, many emerging information technologies have been applied to learning environments in an attempt to overcome drawbacks associated with traditional teaching environments. Some of these technologies have been shown to improve learning outcomes and learning motivation. Advances in wireless communications have raised research interest in the development of ubiquitous learning (u-learning) environments and their impact on learner attitudes and behavior. This study reports the use of augmented reality (AR) technology to create virtual objects for use in mobile devices to create a context-aware, AR-enabled guided tour application for outdoor learning. The goal is to provide learners with a friendly, interactive interface and rich, engaging media to stimulate intrinsic motivation and learning performance. The main advantages of the proposed system include the following: (1) it helps stimulate learning intention through pursuing outdoor learning objectives, (2) AR technology provides learners with contextual information related to the outdoor learning environment, and (3) it enhances learner retention of teaching contents easily with the situated learning strategy.