Augmented & Virtual Reality Explained

Augmented Reality

When we speak of Augmented Reality (AR) in this course, we are referring to technology that alters or enhances what we see through the lens of a device such as a smartphone or iPad.

Examples

The SkyView Lite Links to an external site. app allows users to find stars and constellations in the sky. The app uses the phone's camera to view one's surroundings and overlay images to help the viewer locate the sun, planets, the moon, constellations, satellites, etc.

The Measure Links to an external site. app allows user to measure items in their surrounding environment without using a physical ruler. Reality is being augmented because the measuring devices are being displayed on the screen and users get additional information about their surroundings that is not available by simply looking around them.

Virtual Reality

Virtual Reality (VR) on the other hand, allows the user to have a "first-person" perspective when viewed through their device. These "experiences" are often enhanced with 3D viewers that transform a smartphone or similar device into an immersive and sometimes interactive view of a place or event.

Examples

Google Expeditions Links to an external site. allows teachers to take students on virtual field trips to visit far away places while never leaving their classroom. Click here Links to an external site. for a list of available Expeditions.

Like many other VR apps, a 3D viewer such as the Google Cardboard is required. Through the viewer, students are immersed in a 3D world that they can move around and explore.

Need access to VR viewers? Class sets of viewers are available for checkout through the district. Just ask your Ed Tech Coach!