The Use of Augmented Reality in Formal Education: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Augmented Reality (AR) is recognized as one of the most important developments in educational technology for both higher and K-12 education as emphasized in Horizon report (Johnson et al., 2016, 2015). Furthermore, AR is expected to achieve widespread adoption that will take two to three years in higher education and four to five years in K-12 education (Johnson et al., 2016, 2012). If this is the current state of the art for the use of AR in education, it is important to investigate how educators and researchers integrate AR into teaching-learning processes. Looking from such a glimpse, the purpose of this scoping review was to provide a comprehensive overview of relevant research regarding the emergence of augmented reality, the links to pedagogy and educational outcomes, specifically in the context of formal education. The scoping review is underpinned by the five-stage framework Arksey and O'Malley (2005). First, research questions are identified. Second, the last five years in ERIC database is explored by using the search term 'augmented reality.' Third, studies are investigated through inclusion and exclusion criteria, and PRISMA (2009) model is utilized for article selection. Fourth, selected articles are charted with respect to numerous dimensions and summaries. Finally, findings are reported in the light of research questions. The findings of the scoping review illustrated a set of studies that provide evidence of improved academic performance, increase in students' engagement, motivation, and satisfaction through the educational environments that are enriched with AR applications. The findings of the scoping review are discussed with respect to multiple dimensions that are explored under research questions.