The Usage of Augmented Reality Technology in the Educational Process of Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

The development of additional reality (AR-technology) and its application in the educational process is considered. Definitions of AR technology are given, its advantages are given, as well as the limitations associated with its use in the educational process. An overview of platforms for creating AR-applications is given, their functional capabilities are considered, the expediency and efficiency of application in the educational process of free economic zones are assessed. Aspects of the use of augmented reality technology in the higher education system are considered. One of the most important features of augmented reality in terms of pedagogy is that it provides a space focused on the student and flexible for learning opportunities. The advantages and limitations of using this technology are given. The general scheme for creating augmented reality is always as follows: the camera of the AR device captures an image of a real object; the software (software) of the device identifies the received image, selects or calculates the corresponding image visual complement, combines the real image with its complement and outputs the final image to the visualization device. To work with AR, it is enough to use a smartphone or tablet and the appropriate software. There are the following main areas of augmented reality technology in the education system: support for research and experimental approach; checking the model for adequacy; modeling environments that combine the possibilities of teaching, learning, communication with game elements; acquisition of technological skills. AR-technology has the following potential pedagogical advantages: accessibility, involvement, cooperation, interactivity. Despite these benefits, there are certain factors that need to be considered when working with educational technologies using AR. Such factors include: lack of necessary teacher training; dependence on hardware (not all students may have smartphones that support AR applications); content mobility issues across all platforms and devices. Directions and examples of application of augmented reality technology in the educational environment are offered.