GoonAR: A Bilingual Children Storybook through Augmented Reality Technology Using Unity with Vuforia Framework

Abstract

This paper aims to apply the augmented reality (AR) technology in storytelling to enhance and give a more motivating and fun reading experience to children. The primary objective of this study is to develop a bilingual AR children storybook mobile application called GoonAR. GoonAR is an android smartphone application that uses augmented reality technology to display 3D characters and environments in the story. The app offers auditory, kinesthetic, and visual learners a fun experience as they are immersed in learning activities. An original story was developed, and a pseudo-book is created. The pseudo-book incorporates the AR technology that displays 3D assets. Grade 1 students under 6 – 7 years of age are the target users for this application, as children at this age start to learn reading. The users are able to understand the story by (1) the aid of a narrator that speaks both English and Filipino language or (2) by reading it themselves on the phone and view displayed 3D objects that were made possible through the use of Unity with Vuforia framework.