Real-world anchored augmented visualizations to support conceptual learning in physics

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Jochen Kuhn; Professor Dr. Albrecht Schmidt
• Subject Area: Image and Language Processing, Computer Graphics and Visualisation, Human Computer Interaction, Ubiquitous and Wearable Computing
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 517713394

Everyday objects, processes and natural phenomena are closely linked to concepts of modern physics. These concepts, however, are abstract and hard to comprehend because understanding them requires domain-specific conceptual knowledge as well as basic knowledge in physics. We will develop new interactive concepts and technologies in an experimental research approach, e.g. using mixed reality, to enable real-world learning on multiple length and time scales in the real environment of everyday life based on highly innovative topics. These possibilities of learning in the everyday environment outside the classroom are supported by multiple representations as prerequisites for acquiring conceptual knowledge in STEM disciplines for acquiring conceptual knowledge in STEM disciplines in the wild and shall close the gap between formal learning in educational institutions and informal learning in everyday life. By combining these highly topical issues with innovative concepts in physics education (especially fostering representational competence) and modern methods of human-computer interaction, the research project goes far beyond the application of standard methods. The empirical focus is on physics learning and we expect new scientific insights in physics education. The overall goal is to find technological and conceptual solutions that are generalizable beyond a specific use case and subjects. This should open up new perspectives in STEM subjects to make learning more interesting and increase the motivation of learners by anchoring them in the real world. The set of innovative research questions, both in the single disciplines but especially interdisciplinary by connecting the two disciplines, are the basis for new scientific findings in physics education and in human computer interaction. Furthermore, the AR applications, which are the research vehicle, go beyond typical in-classroom-settings. We investigate the benefits of AR in out-of-classroom environments and its effect on learning by supporting ubiquitous learning, collaborative learning, and informal learning. In addition to the fundamental questions of Technology-Enhanced Learning and Human-Computer-Interaction, the development of a mixed methods approach, especially with regard to the conception and evaluation of such approaches as well as including technology, multi-sensory experiential learning, is also being (inter-)disciplinarily advanced.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Co-Investigators: Dr. Stefan Küchemann; Dr. Robin Welsch