How Can Augmented Reality Educational Books Improve the Learning Process?

Using augmented reality for books improves the studying process and helps students grasp complex information easily. Interactive 3D models and animations allow learners to interact with the educational content in a fun way. But can any book become an augmented one? And should publishers invest in AR apps? 

Since the global share of the publishing market is predicted to grow from $87.92 billion in 2020 to $92.68 billion in 2021, it seems AR may be a good investment. Let’s look in more detail at what an AR educational book is, its advantages and applications, and what it takes to develop an augmented reality book.

What is an AR educational book?

AR books are either printed or digital texts that have triggers to show additional 2D or 3D layers of content via an AR app. They allow readers to immerse themselves in highly captivating experiences, visualizing different concepts, adding gamification elements to the text, and allowing interaction with virtual models. 

Unlike virtual reality, augmented reality apps don’t require any headsets or other specific equipment; a smartphone is all you need to experience AR. This makes augmented reality a more accessible tech for both readers and publishers. More than that, due to the ability to visualize and gamify information, AR books are the perfect fit for schools and universities that struggle with maintaining student engagement and motivation. 

So, what are the advantages of augmented reality for books in education?

The key benefits of AR books for learning

Augmented reality educational books make the learning process more dynamic and interesting. This allows students to interact with what they read, resulting in: 

• Improved learning. A better understanding of complex information is the main advantage that augmented reality brings to the studying process. Even in early childhood, the use of AR books leads to increased rates of literacy learning. The combination of printed and digital content has already shown good results in educational inclusion by helping children with disabilities understand concepts faster and better. Students also confirm that AR-enriched content is perceived better, and they have more intention to use it. 

• Increased motivation. Augmented reality storybooks boost interest and engagement among students. They can also improve their concentration, memory, imagination, and problem-solving skills. Nine out of ten children said they would read books more often if those were AR books. 

So, given that augmented reality and virtual reality books help students learn faster and achieve higher results in their educational process, how can publishers enrich their learning literature with AR technology?

Book categories where you can apply AR technology

Any book can become an augmented one, be it a physics textbook, medicinal atlas, or an adventure novel. 
Children’s literature. Augmented reality transforms such books into a highly enjoyable and engaging experience by putting characters in a three-dimensional environment. This enables children to interact with them just like in real life. Let’s take Ocean Monsters, Tide Pools, and Space Race as examples. These books teach kids about the ocean and space in a highly efficient and interactive way.

• Educational textbooks. Learning new material is also possible with AR books. Students can pass tests and interact with 3D models using their smartphones. New Horizon Englis is an example of an AR app enabling Japanese learners to master their English skills. 

• Illustrated atlases. Augmented reality enhances the atlas with catchy 3D animated elements. This allows students to see cities and landscapes from different angles or watch short videos about them from their mobile devices. Good examples here are AR Google Maps and Augmented.City.

• Encyclopedias. Students can learn various concepts by interacting with detailed 3D models. Take Wow! Animals and Mini Science Encyclopedia for example. These AR books help children study zoology and science in a truly exciting way. 

You can apply AR technology to any type of book using marker-based, markerless, or location-based approaches. In the marker-based AR books, a specific image, sign, or code triggers the augmented experiences. Markerless AR applications work similarly, but they use invisible markers that enable AR objects to appear on the screen device via an AR app. Location-based triggers are more common for the travel industry: your physical location enables the AR experience. Let’s dive into the process of book augmentation in more detail.

How to make an augmented reality book

Creating an augmented reality book doesn’t differ much from creating a traditional one. 

1. Think about the content. Which parts of your text or illustrations should provide an augmented experience? Think about it beforehand so as not to damage the book’s integrity. You can also explore which 3D elements, sounds, and effects you wish to include.

2. Decide on a paper or electronic version. AR elements will differ in a printed and digital book. The publishers should think about the types of markers they need to include in the printed version, or hyperlinks and additional interactive elements when it comes to e-books and their accompanying AR apps. 

3. Choose your tools. Depending on the complexity and the number of 3D elements, you can choose off-the-shelf SDKs (software development kits), editors, and 3D catalogs for your AR book, or opt for a custom AR app that will fit your needs in the best way. 

Once you’ve completed all these three steps, you can start developing an augmented reality book.

Postindustria can help with AR book development

Augmented reality educational books make the learning process more innovative and effective. Students read more, memorize better, and study efficiently, even while staying home. Motivation and engagement are the most valuable benefits AR brings to the field of education. 

More augmented books are arguably just what schools and universities need in these times of frequent lockdowns. And Postindustria can contribute to this task. With over 14 years of experience, we can create an AR app tailored to your needs. Contact us today to get all the answers about an augmented reality app for your book.