Augmenting Education: The Collision of Real and Virtual Worlds

Augmenting Education: The Collision of Real and Virtual Worlds from Bryan Loar

This presentation explores augmented reality and potential uses within arts education.  It was presented as part the SECAC 2012 Visual Resources Curator Group session, "When the Past Collides with the Present: Moving Beyond the Single Classroom Experience via Digital Technologies."

BeecherHill

My employer recently announced a name and brand change from SC search consultants to BeecherHill.  The process took about a year, and I was fortunate enough to take part in the process.

BeecherHill as a name pays homage to both Founder Cindy Hilsheimer and to the locations of our business (Beecher Rd. and Beecher Crossing North).  However, as one of our associates put it, the name goes beyond that...it is a representation of climbing towards a goal.  For me, that goal is excellence.  Excellence in our service, our community, and each other. 

I'm very proud to work with such a talented group of professionals, and I'm inspired by the impact we have on exceptional leaders, our clients, and our community.

Augmented Reality Resources

Image: Slide from Augmenting Education: The Collision of Real and Virtual Worlds. 

I've compiled a number of nice resources and examples for my upcoming presentation on augmented reality in Diigo.  Check them out at bit.ly/secac12-AR.

(Note: This is a work-in-progress.  Collection is still ongoing and some cleanup of tags & descriptions before the conference need to take place.)

Upcoming SECAC Presentation on Augmented Reality

Image: Slide from Upcoming Presentation on Augmented Reality. 

I am very excited to be part of the upcoming session "When the Past Collides with the Present: Moving Beyond the Single Classroom Experience via Digital Technologies" at the Southeastern College Art Conference (SECAC) 2012.

My presentation focuses on augmented reality (AR) and how AR can enhance the educational experience.  Below is my abstract.

Augmenting Education: The Collision of Real and Virtual Worlds

Augmented reality contextualizes and gives deeper meaning to real-world objects, and it provides educators with a means to extend the classroom beyond traditional confines.  The technology uses mobile devices, head-mounted displays, or eyewear to produce an informational layer between the viewer and the viewed.  Unlike virtual reality, a completely simulated experience, augmented reality overlays virtual information over the real world.  Architecture, sculpture, and the visual arts in situ can be complemented with a rich layer of data.  Consequently, living labs may be constructed that enhance the educational experience and student engagement.  This paper explores current case studies, suggests practical applications, and speculates on the future of education-based augmented reality.

For more information on SECAC, please visit www.secollegeart.org.