Best AR experiences for education and learning

Augmented Reality (AR) has become an innovative tool for enhancing education by providing immersive and interactive learning experiences. It allows students to visualize complex concepts and interact with virtual objects in ways that traditional learning methods can't match. AR fosters deeper engagement by making learning more dynamic, allowing students to manipulate and explore subjects like biology, history, or art through 3D models or virtual tours.

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AR in education is not only about engaging students, but it also supports multiple learning styles by combining visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements. For instance, AR can make difficult concepts such as human anatomy or historical events more accessible and understandable. It has been proven to improve knowledge retention and motivation by creating hands-on learning environments where students actively participate. Some tools also integrate gamified experiences to foster teamwork and collaboration, while others use virtual models to bring abstract ideas into the physical world. The future of AR in education looks promising, with continuous advancements enabling even more compelling learning experiences that break down traditional barriers and prepare students for a tech-driven future​.

  • zSpace
    zSpace

    zSpace - "Immersive learning with virtual reality."

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  • Merge Cube
    Merge Cube

    Merge Cube - "Hold virtual objects in your hand."

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  • Immersive Reader
    Immersive Reader

    Immersive Reader - "Reading made accessible for all."

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  • Merge Cube and Tinkercad
    Merge Cube and Tinkercad

    Merge Cube and Tinkercad - "Create and visualize in 3D with AR."

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  • Flipgrid
    Flipgrid

    Flipgrid - "A social learning platform."

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  • Nearpod
    Nearpod

    Nearpod - "Interactive lessons, anytime, anywhere."

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  • CoSpaces
    CoSpaces

    CoSpaces - "Create, share, and learn with AR."

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  • Big Bang AR
    Big Bang AR

    Big Bang AR - "Explore the universe in your hands."

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  • Georgia Public Broadcasting AR/VR
    Georgia Public Broadcasting AR/VR

    Georgia Public Broadcasting AR/VR - "Bringing history to life with AR."

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  • Adobe Aero
    Adobe Aero

    Adobe Aero - "Bring your imagination to life."

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Best AR experiences for education and learning

1.

zSpace

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zSpace combines augmented and virtual reality to create a fully immersive educational experience. It's used in K-12 and higher education environments for subjects such as STEM and healthcare, offering interactive simulations and virtual experiments. zSpace allows students to learn in a 3D environment, providing hands-on learning experiences that foster deeper understanding.

Pros

  • pros Engaging
  • pros Interactive
  • pros Hands-on learning
  • pros Multi-subject support
  • pros Collaborative

Cons

  • consExpensive
  • consRequires specific hardware
  • consLimited content variety
  • consComplex setup
  • consOverwhelming for some students

2.

Merge Cube

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Merge Cube allows users to hold and interact with virtual objects through AR technology. Students can explore 3D models of anatomy, historical artifacts, and other learning tools. It’s affordable and portable, with a wide range of educational applications in science, history, and more.

Pros

  • pros Affordable
  • pros Portable
  • pros Interactive
  • pros Fun
  • pros Easy setup

Cons

  • consLimited content variety
  • consSmall screen for detailed views
  • consRequires mobile devices
  • consBattery consumption
  • consTechnical glitches

3.

Immersive Reader

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Microsoft’s Immersive Reader is an AR-powered tool designed to improve literacy by reading aloud text, highlighting lines as they are read, and providing visual enhancements. It’s especially helpful for students with learning difficulties, dyslexia, or English language learners.

Pros

  • pros Accessible
  • pros Free
  • pros Customizable
  • pros Multilingual
  • pros Text-to-speech

Cons

  • consLimited to text
  • consNo 3D/AR features
  • consCan be too basic for advanced learners
  • consRequires internet
  • consBasic functionality

4.

Merge Cube and Tinkercad

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Merge Cube combined with Tinkercad enables students to create and view 3D models in augmented reality. This combination is particularly valuable for teaching design, engineering, and technology, encouraging students to build and interact with their creations in an immersive environment.

Pros

  • pros Creative
  • pros Easy to use
  • pros Cross-platform
  • pros Collaborative
  • pros Engaging

Cons

  • consRequires 3D modeling skills
  • consLimited device compatibility
  • consNeeds strong internet
  • consCan be challenging for younger students
  • consContent restrictions

5.

Flipgrid

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Flipgrid is a video-based AR tool that encourages students to record and share their thoughts on various topics. It fosters communication, critical thinking, and creativity by allowing students to reflect on lessons and discuss them in a secure online environment. Teachers can moderate the content for privacy.

Pros

  • pros Collaborative
  • pros Encourages communication
  • pros Easy to use
  • pros Free
  • pros Engaging

Cons

  • consLimited AR features
  • consVideo-based
  • consRequires internet access
  • consLess focus on content
  • consTime-consuming

6.

Nearpod

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Nearpod is an educational platform that combines AR with interactive lessons. Teachers can create lessons that include AR elements such as 3D models, virtual field trips, and quizzes. Nearpod makes it easy to integrate AR into lessons and assessments for subjects like history, math, and science.

Pros

  • pros Interactive
  • pros Versatile
  • pros Easy to use
  • pros Compatible with multiple devices
  • pros Engaging

Cons

  • consRequires subscription for full access
  • consTeacher-focused
  • consLimited AR content
  • consCan be difficult to integrate
  • consExpensive

7.

CoSpaces

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CoSpaces allows students to design their own interactive AR experiences by creating 3D objects and scenes. It’s a great tool for STEM and arts education, supporting creative learning through coding and game-like experiences. Students can also share their projects with others.

Pros

  • pros Creative
  • pros Free version
  • pros Supports coding
  • pros Engaging
  • pros Collaborative

Cons

  • consRequires some coding knowledge
  • consLimited for younger students
  • consLimited device compatibility
  • consNeeds internet connection
  • consSome features are paid

8.

Big Bang AR

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Big Bang AR allows students to explore the universe, from galaxies to black holes, in augmented reality. It's an excellent tool for teaching astronomy in an immersive and interactive way. Students can virtually visit space and explore celestial bodies and cosmic phenomena with ease.

Pros

  • pros Engaging
  • pros Educational
  • pros Immersive
  • pros Fun
  • pros High-quality visuals

Cons

  • consLimited content beyond astronomy
  • consRequires mobile device
  • consNot for all age groups
  • consCan be resource-heavy
  • consOverwhelming

9.

Georgia Public Broadcasting AR/VR

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Georgia Public Broadcasting offers AR and VR educational experiences, focusing on history and local culture. With immersive AR apps, students can explore historical events and figures, enhancing their understanding of Georgia's rich cultural heritage and fostering deeper engagement with history.

Pros

  • pros Immersive
  • pros Diverse subjects
  • pros Free access
  • pros Educational
  • pros Easy to use

Cons

  • consLimited to Georgia
  • consLess content variety
  • consCan be difficult to navigate
  • consToo localized
  • consLimited subject scope

10.

Adobe Aero

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Adobe Aero is a creative platform that allows students and educators to create interactive AR experiences. With tools for integrating 3D models, animations, and interactivity, it’s perfect for students interested in digital design, arts, and storytelling. Aero supports both educational and professional use.

Pros

  • pros Creative
  • pros High-quality design
  • pros Powerful tools
  • pros Multi-device support
  • pros User-friendly

Cons

  • consSteep learning curve
  • consRequires Adobe subscription
  • consComplex features
  • consNeeds strong device performance
  • consAdvanced for beginners

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