Augmented Reality. Virtual Reality. Mixed Reality.
XR = Extended Reality, which includes:
-
Augmented Reality (AR): Real World + Digital Components
-
Mixed Reality (MR): Real World + Digital Components + Interactions
-
Virtual Reality (VR): In a Simulated Environment
Reality gets quite blurred once you enter eXtended Reality (XR). AR includes things like Pokemon go and other phone/tablet-based apps that overlay digital content on the real world; MR includes things like Hololens, Magic Leap, and other see-through glasses dependent apps; VR includes HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Google Cardboard (with phone), and various other headset dependent apps. The term XR encompass all the flavors of extending reality using technology.
TERC is exploring the affordances of these technologies to broaden participation in STEM. When well designed, they can immerse learners in an experience, help focus attention and minimize distractions, engage learners in the world around them, and so much more…enabling experiences otherwise unattainable for many learners.
EdGE at TERC: Greetings from STEMlandia (Video)
A 2018 presentation by TERC’s Teon Edwards and Jamie Larsen on the potential of AR for education at ARiA (AR in ACTION), a convening of some of the top minds in Augmented Reality.
STEMlandia
STEMlandia is our XR work to use EdTech as a lever to get kids outside and explore nature through location-based learning. This has involved a series of projects, including a STEM-Adventure geocaching game, student created 360 degree videos, and more.
Mission to Europa Prime
A prototype of a Virtual Reality STEM-based game. Players explore an abandoned space station on the moon Europa, faced with various STEM puzzles and an overall mystery challenge.
UniVRsal Access
We are creating and searching an exciting, immersive VR gameplay experience, expanding on the Mission to Europa Prime prototype. We are designing with learners with autism and exploring how Virtual Reality can be used to increase access and broaden participation in STEM learning.
Augmented Reality with PTC
PTC (Parametric Technology Corporation) and TERC explored potential uses and affordances of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Augmented Reality (AR) in K-12 education.
Interested in learning more?
We believe AR/VR/XR has great potential for education if it’s done right. We’re working to figure out what exactly this means. If you are interested in exploring with us or supporting us in this, please fill out the following form and we will be in touch.
