Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes a computer-generated image on a user's view of the real world which can be seen when we look at it through a smartphone or tablet device.

We can think of AR as adding a digital layer to the physical world. This means we can connect physical objects to online information which can be used to tell the stories of people, places and objects through a variety of media.

Augmented Reality offers “compelling applications for higher education; these technologies are poised to impact learning by transporting students to any imaginable location across the known universe and transforming the delivery of knowledge and empowering students to engage in deep learning.” (NMC 2016)

Augmented Reality content is usually made up of two elements:

A Trigger - This could be an image or location and is used to tell our smartphone or tablet to find extra content

Overlaid or Connected Content - This can be graphics, weblinks, video, or any combination of content. When viewed through a device it appears on top of the physical world.

To create Augmented Reality content you could use tools such as Blippar.

At the University of Derby

Within the Marketing Programme, augmented reality has been incorporated into assessment to introduce students to a technology which is relevant to their future professional working practices. Students were tasked with designing a four-page leaflet on a given topic. A justification for the academic theories used was then embedded into the design by means of a video presentation from students. The video was accessible using augmented reality when scanning the leaflets with a mobile device and AR app.

Student work resulting from the assessment was displayed at the Derby Business School Employer Showcase and received positive feedback from attendees. The University’s own Marketing Department were also inspired to investigate the use of AR for university marketing materials. Positive feedback from students has led to the assessment being rerun in following year with further refinements to the process and technology.