From Pilots to Programs

Abstract

Higher education institutions currently face a pressing strategic decision: whether to allocate limited information technology (IT) resources to scale augmented reality (AR) from pilot projects to institution-wide programs. To support this investment decision, this article presents a systematic review of 41 empirical studies published between 2024 and 2025, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The synthesis reveals that while AR delivers measurable return on investment through enhanced retention, complex procedural skill acquisition, critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration competencies, widespread adoption is stalled by specific IT management obstacles. Key barriers identified include high capital and operational costs and emerging risks regarding biometric data privacy and security. By analyzing these findings through the technology–organization–environment framework, this review provides a strategic AR adoption checklist. This evidence-based guide assists IT and academic leaders in navigating infrastructure readiness, security governance, and pedagogical integration to transition AR from a novelty to a sustainable educational tool.