Amazing Augmented Reality Apps
Author: Rick Phelan
Published: 11.26.14
Augmented reality is being applied in a number of different educational tablet applications. What is augmented reality? It is the direct or indirect view of the physical world with elements that are supplemented by computer-generated sensory input through sound, video, graphics, or GPS data. This blog post shares information on five augmented reality apps that K-12 schools can use with either iOS or Android tablets.
Word Lens | iOS | Android
This free application works in conjunction with the built-in camera on a tablet or smartphone. When the user points the device at printed words, the app is able to instantly translate the words into another language. Available translations include:
- English ⇆ Spanish
- English ⇆ Russian
- English ⇆ Portuguese
- English ⇆ German
- English ⇆ Italian
- English ⇆ French
colAR Mix | iOS | Android
This free app works in conjunction with color pages that are obtained from the developer’s website. Students color the pages, then see their creations come to life with the app. The app works in conjunction with the device’s camera to make colored picture elements jump out in 3D form. This Youtube video demonstrates the app in action. Note that there are free color page sets and sets that need to be purchased. Click here for one of the free colAR pages that may be copied and used with students.
StarWalk | iOS | Android
Star Walk is an interactive astronomy guide. Using a tablet’s GPS and accelerometer, the app displays the exact positions of celestial objects as the device is directed at the sky. Users can obtain information about planets, stars, constellations, and satellites, then find their exact locations in the night sky.
Virtual History ROMA |
iOS only
Virtual History ROMA is an iPad application that offers a glimpse into the future of books. Users can learn about ancient Roman civilization in new ways using functions and multimedia content that include 3D explorations of monuments such as the Coliseum, Circus Maximus, and Hadrian’s Mausoleum, along with a digital reconstruction of the city’s statues and aerial views of the metropolis as it stood 2,000 years ago. Annotations and information is provided that make this a must-have for world history classes.
Anatomy 4D | iOS | Android
Anatomy 4D is an app that works with a printed target page. Users print the target page and use it with the app. Students can see inside the human body and view various body systems, including skeletal, circulatory, nervous, muscular, and respiratory areas. They can zoom in to see each organ or body part in-depth. A separate heart target page allows students to investigate different aspects of the heart, including its chambers, valve functions, and blood flow.
Blog: Technology for Learners
