How Can AR be Used in Education?

Affordable Immersive Learning for Primary Education

As a former headteacher who has navigated the challenges of technology integration in primary schools, I understand the balancing act between innovation and practicality. After years in education leadership and now working in the extended reality (XR) space, I’ve seen firsthand how immersive technologies can transform learning experiences.

Why Consider AR for Your School?

While virtual reality (VR) offers incredible benefits for engagement, retention and learning abstract concepts, the cost of equipment and implementation can be prohibitive for many schools. Augmented reality (AR) provides an excellent entry point into immersive learning without the significant investment VR requires.

AR enhances the real world with digital elements using devices schools likely already have—tablets and smartphones. It’s the perfect stepping stone into extended reality (XR) for budget-conscious schools wanting to enhance pupil engagement and learning outcomes.

Benefits of AR in Primary Education

1. Heightened Engagement

AR creates “wow” moments that capture pupils’ attention and imagination. When dinosaurs appear in the classroom or historical figures tell their stories, learning becomes memorable and exciting.

2. Supports Visual and Kinaesthetic Learners

AR provides visual representations of abstract concepts and allows pupils to interact with digital content physically, supporting diverse learning styles.

3. Simplifies Complex Concepts

Abstract ideas become tangible when visualised in 3D, making concepts in science, maths and geography more accessible.

4. Cost-Effective Implementation

Unlike VR, AR can be implemented using existing school devices, eliminating the need for expensive headsets.

5. Develops Digital Literacy

Pupils develop important technical skills while engaging with AR content, preparing them for an increasingly digital world.

AR Implementation Options for Primary Schools

QR Codes and Image Trackers

Difficulty Level: ★☆☆☆☆

The simplest form of AR involves scanning QR codes or images to reveal 3D objects or information. This approach is particularly user-friendly for primary settings.

Classroom Application:

  • Create learning stations around the classroom where pupils scan codes to reveal content
  • Enhance reading corners with books that come to life when scanned
  • Add interactive elements to classroom displays

Recommended Apps:

  • Twinkl AR: Brings storybooks to life with animated characters
  • Google Expeditions: Explore historical sites, natural wonders and scientific concepts

Surface Detection AR

Difficulty Level: ★★☆☆☆

More advanced AR apps can detect flat surfaces in the environment and place 3D models directly on tables, floors or walls without markers.

Classroom Application:

  • Place historical artefacts on pupils’ desks for examination
  • Visualise the solar system in the middle of the classroom
  • Bring animals into the learning environment for study

Recommended Apps:

  • Wonderscope: Interactive stories that use voice recognition to track reading
  • ZooKazam: Place realistic 3D animals in the classroom environment
  • JigSpace: Explore how things work with interactive 3D models

Location-Based AR

Difficulty Level: ★★★☆☆

This type connects AR experiences to specific locations, making it ideal for outdoor learning and school trips.

Classroom Application:

  • Create treasure hunts around the school grounds
  • Develop immersive storytelling experiences linked to locations
  • Enhance field trips with historical or scientific overlays

Recommended Apps:

  • Metaverse: Create educational scavenger hunts and interactive stories
  • Onirix: Simple platform for creating location-based experiences

AR Portals

Difficulty Level: ★★★★☆

AR portals allow pupils to step through virtual doors into immersive 360° environments.

Classroom Application:

  • Transport pupils to historical settings for immersive learning
  • Visit otherwise inaccessible locations like space or underwater environments
  • Inspire creative writing through immersive experiences

Recommended Apps:

  • AR Portal: Various portal styles leading to different 360° environments
  • Enter the Room: Powerful app for developing empathy and creative writing

Getting Started: Your AR Implementation Roadmap

1. Assess Your Resources

  • Device inventory: Catalogue available tablets and smartphones
  • WiFi capabilities: Ensure your network can support multiple devices accessing AR content
  • Storage space: Check that devices have sufficient storage for AR apps

2. Start Small

  • Begin with one year group or class
  • Choose 1-2 AR apps that align with your curriculum goals
  • Create a simple project that enhances existing learning objectives

3. Provide Staff Training

  • Offer hands-on workshops for teachers to explore AR tools
  • Create easy-to-follow guides for chosen applications
  • Identify AR champions who can support colleagues

4. Curriculum Integration

  • Align AR experiences with learning objectives
  • Use AR as a supplement to, not a replacement for, traditional teaching
  • Create a bank of AR lesson ideas shared among staff

5. Measure Impact

  • Gather feedback from pupils and staff
  • Document changes in engagement and knowledge retention
  • Share successes and challenges with your school community

Overcoming Common Concerns

Limited Budget

Focus on free apps and those offering education discounts. Consider applying for technology grants or partnering with local businesses.

Technical Limitations

Start with simpler AR applications that work well on older devices. Establish a booking system if you have limited devices.

Teacher Confidence

Create a supportive environment where teachers can experiment with AR. Pair tech-confident staff with those less confident.

Curriculum Relevance

Always prioritise learning objectives over the technology. AR should enhance learning, not distract from it.

Conclusion

Augmented reality offers primary schools an affordable entry point into immersive learning. By starting with simple applications and gradually expanding, schools can harness the engagement power of AR without overwhelming budgets or staff.

As you begin your AR journey, remember that the goal is enhanced learning, not just technological novelty. Used thoughtfully, AR can bring curriculum content to life, create memorable learning experiences, and prepare pupils for a world where digital and physical realities increasingly overlap.

Ready to take your first steps into augmented reality? Contact us for personalised guidance on implementing AR or VR in your primary setting: https://peopleseducationsolutions.co.uk/edupeople-vr/

About the Author: Justin Peoples is a former headteacher and educational leader who now specialises in immersive technology integration for primary schools. With 15 years of classroom and leadership experience, he brings practical insight to the exciting possibilities of AR and VR in education.