Virtual vs. Augmented Reality
Augmented reality is defined as, "an enhanced version of reality created by the use of technology to overlay digital information on an image of something being viewed through a device (such as a smartphone camera)." It's like having a virtual object in the real world, as demonstrated in the video below with the chameleon on the log. Augmented reality does not require a headset in order to participate in the experience. All you need is the screen on a smartphone or tablet.
Device Requirements for Expeditions AR Tours
On Android, your device needs to be able to run ARCore framework, which means it needs to be running at least Android 7.0, (although some devices require Android 8.0). Google has a list of compatible devices on their developer website.
Lesson Planning With Google Expeditions AR
Using Expeditions AR with Students
The biggest change is the markers. You will want to download and print these out before you begin your tour. Students will scan these markers to see the object you want to show them. You can get your copy of the AR markers in the app by tapping the menu button and then tapping "Help with Markers", or you can click here to download a copy right now!
Place the markers around the room so that your students have adequate space to experience the objects from the tour. The markers have numbers on them, but the numbers are really just to help with classroom management because they all show the same AR object when the tour has started. So, just assign some students to marker #1, some to marker #2, and so forth.
Next, open the Expeditions app and choose the AR tour you want to lead. You can search for AR tours in the app, or see all the available tours in this handy spreadsheet. Once you start the tour, your students can scan the markers to access the objects you want to show them.
For more tips and troubleshooting advice on leading an Expeditions AR tour, see Google's guide.
5 Top Tips for Expeditions AR Tours
- Some objects are very large. Pinch the object with two fingers to resize it.
- Drag two fingers up and down the screen to raise or lower the object after it has been placed.
- Touch and hold on an object to create a spotlight that can be used to highlight specific areas.
- Use selfie sticks with larger groups of students to help them navigate around an object.
- Record your device's screen to make a video of your AR tour or have students "show what they know" by retelling their knowledge of a particular object while recording.
If you have tips of your own that you would like to share, please leave a comment below!