Cyber-innovation in the STEM classroom

This paper presents the formative evaluation of an ongoing NSF-sponsored research project in classroom innovation using augmented reality (AR) to enhance STEM education. It will also discuss the relevance of AR in engineering and architecture research in understanding complex data sets in sustainability. Exposing students to advances in digital modeling, data visualization and performative software is preparing them for new pathways for decision-making in the AEC professions. Recent research shows that Technology Mediated Learning Environments (interacting with computer-based tools) can enhance learning. Augmented Reality (AR) or the ability to augment the real world environment with computer-generated information is bringing a new dimension to learning and designing using multiple data streams. The project objectives were to 1) explore opportunities and obstacles presented by AR in the classroom, 2) look at the impact of various strategies to integrate AR, and 3) contribute to research on how people learn using technology-mediated environments by developing a better understanding of the various attributes of these technologies