Augmented Reality Labs: Immersive Learning in Chemistry

Physical hands-on labs can be costly and time-consuming. Due to the advancements in hardware and computer vision technologies, virtual labs are being implemented to cut costs and save time. As augmented reality becomes more popular, the goal is to bring this technology into the education system by implementing a platform that can be accessed through common devices, such as phones and internet browsers. We developed a phone application to bring augmented reality to classes, with a focus on the field of chemistry. In addition to the mobile application, we developed a companion web application that enables professors to create classes, 3D objects for student interaction, and manage assignments, including grading, for the chemistry class. Finally, three laboratories were introduced for the chemistry class to execute a case study on the effectiveness of augmented reality in education. These laboratories are designed to instruct students on constructing 3D compounds through an assignment-based system, creating neutrally charged ionic bonds, and observing their ratios using an ionic table. Additionally, the labs aim to foster teamwork by providing a shared augmented reality experience, enabling students to collaboratively interact with the periodic table within the same virtual space. The overall feedback of the sixty students who interacted with the application was positive, with 53% strongly agreeing that augmented reality is more engaging than a standard lecture and a good learning tool in chemistry and other fields. Additionally, 39% of students strongly agree that a shared augmented reality experience promotes teamwork in the lab.