Design and Evaluation of an Augmented Reality App for Learning Geometric Shapes in 3D

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) is increasingly used as an educational tool in a range of domains with the goal of enhancing students' performance as well as their learning experience, thanks to the interactivity and visual appeal of AR objects. While some attempts, albeit limited, have been undertaken to prove these beneficial effects in learning 3D geometry, the results remain inconclusive and there are some methodological issues such as under-evaluation of user experience. With the aim to enrich the applied body of knowledge on this specific topic, we developed an AR application that allows its users to learn about crosssectional shapes and variables in 3D geometry. We compared the AR-based approach with the traditional chalk-and-board approach by involving sixty 12-16 year-olds from two schools. The AR class showed a significantly stronger learning effect than the traditional class, especially for the more complex geometric concepts. The AR class found the application engaging, regardless of their level of knowledge gain, which bore no significant relation with their intention to use it. The methodological challenge for implementing control groups and the practical challenge for affordable emerging educational tools should be tackled in future research.

A systematic literature review on augmented reality in mathematics education

“…In mathematics education, AR has a big potential and opportunities for students to learn and interact with three-dimensional models in the real world. The usage of AR in mathematics education has increased especially in geometry and other complex concepts (Liu et al, 2019;Thamrongrat & Law, 2019). In these studies, it is reported that the use of AR has a positive effect on students' learning performance and attitude toward mathematics, especially in classes that focus on solid geometry and more abstract geometric concepts.…”

The Augmented Reality Learning Media to Improve Mathematical Spatial Ability in Geometry Concept

“…In mathematics, and particularly in geometry, spatial visualizations are essential. Spatial-visual intelligence, as defined by Thamrongrat (2021), can be characterized as the ability to see the world accurately and to change those perceptions. In mathematics, and particularly in geometry, spatial visualizations are essential.…”

Learning Mathematical Modelling With Augmented Reality Mobile Math Trails Program: How Can It Work?

“…AR technologies have positive potential advantages that can be adapted in education (Saidin et al, 2015). In mathematics education, some studies report that AR has positive effect on students' learning performance and attitude in mathematics, especially in solid geometry class (Liu et al, 2019) and for the more complex geometric concepts (Thamrongrat & Law, 2019). This potential can be exploited for improving students' engagement and quality of mathematics learning.…”