A framework utilizing augmented reality to improve critical thinking ability and learning gain of the students in Physics

Physics is a branch of science that deals with different properties of energy and matter. Most of the principles of Physics are based on Mathematics, Mechanics, Optics, Electricity, Magnetism, and Thermodynamics. It is often difficult for students to grasp concepts as they cannot visualize the phenomena, resulting in compounding the problem of lack of interest in STEM subjects. Augmented reality (AR) can be effective in providing better visualization and interaction with real‐like three‐dimensional virtual objects that can ease the learning experience. In this paper, an AR‐based learning environment is developed to help students understand concepts of the magnetic field, electric current, electromagnetic waves, Maxwell's equations, and Fleming's rules for electromagnetism. An experimental study was conducted to determine the impact of AR intervention on student's learning and critical thinking capabilities. The study was conducted among 80 engineering students, who were distributed into two different groups: the AR teaching group (N = 40) and the conventional teaching group (N = 40). The AR teaching group was instructed through the AR‐based learning environment while the conventional teaching group students were taught using a conventional teaching approach. The experimental results indicate that the AR‐based learning environment has a significant positive impact on the critical thinking and learning gain of the students. The AR experience helped the students in visualizing the abstract concepts of Physics and enhanced their understanding.

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