About the Usage of the Augmented Reality Technology in Mathematics and Physics Learning

Abstract

The purpose of the work is the investigation of the modern approaches to augmented reality usage in mathematics and physics learning and the development of mobile application with graphical tips in the augmented reality mode for solving the dynamics typical problems. Materials and methods . The review of the modern articles on the augmented reality usage for mathematics and physics learning is provided; the iOS applications usage in mathematics learning such as GeoGebraAR for second order surfaces learning; the game MultiplicationAR for the multiplication table studying in an fascinating way; VectorAR application for vectors, cross and dot products, Cartesian and skew coordinate systems learning and iOS apps for physics learning such as Physics-Lab for conducting of the experiments with electrical circuits connections in the augmented reality, astrophysics and electromagnetism learning; Galileo application for accompanying of the theoretical material in physics with experiments to demonstrate paradoxes in mechanics, gravitational slingshot etc.; Arious application for students’ acquaintance with famous physicists and their discoveries in the augmented reality are considered. The analysis of tools for lecturers that can be used for the augmented reality content creation, such as HP Reveal and web-application Augment is performed. It should be noted the high personal interests of lecturers for the augmented reality technology implementation. Results . In the course of the work, the difficulties encountered by students in the study of mathematics and physics and possibilities of the augmented reality usage to overcome these difficulties are studied. A mobile application with the ability to receive graphical tips for solving dynamics problems that aimed at students with difficulties of forces and their projections understanding is developed. The methods for the mobile application are developed based on the basic classes of ARKit framework such as SCNNode, SCNBox, SCNPlane, SCNText, SCNGeometry, SCNGeometryElement, SCNShape, SCNMaterial etc. To conduct the experiments a pilot group of 14 random students is created, 9 of which experienced difficulties in solving some types of dynamic problems. The results of the experiment show a positive attitude of students to use of the augmented reality. 7 of 9 students who had difficulties got the skills to solve typical dynamic problems. Conclusion . Based on results of the research, we can conclude about the effectiveness of the augmented reality usage for studying of the abstract concepts in mathematics and physics. The developed mobile application with graphical tips in the augmented reality mode has improved the students’ performance in the pilot group. The lecturers play an important role in the implementation of AR-technology in the educational process. They help to maintain the student’s interest to AR-technology throughout the lesson. The disadvantages of the augmented reality applications include their narrow focus on studying of specific process, phenomenon or concept. The results of research can be applied in the educational process for mathematics and physics learning in order to increase the motivation and interest of students.