Sometimes augmented reality can feel like a gimmick. It’s just like any type of technology – it should address specific learning objectives and connect to long-term goals for students. On first look, the Live Butterflies augmented reality app might certainly feel like a simple AR experience. What I love about this app and many other augmented reality favorites is how it can engage students with interactive learning experiences.
Live Butterflies is an app that is a perfect example of what I talk about in my book Deeper Learning with QR Codes and Augmented Reality: A Scannable Solution for Your Classroom (Corwin, 2016). The ACES Framework for #ScannableTech integration I introduce in my book includes E for Engage. Engagement is more than grabbing a students attention, it’s a way to immerse students in the learning experience.
The Live Butterflies AR app lets butterflies fly in any classroom. Students can choose between four different butterflies to bounce across any indoor or outdoor space. By holding their mobile device up and tapping it out the screen, students can watch butterflies flap their wings to fly up, down and around – regardless of where they stand in a room.
Augmented Reality App
How can you use the Live Butterflies augmented reality app in your classroom?
- Introduce different butterfly species to students including monarch, banded king shoemaker, blue morpho, and orange tip. This can begin an investigation or research project on animal species.
- Practice making observations by having students record their noticings as butterflies fly across the screen. You might decide to set students up for success by providing domain-specific vocabulary words to use in their responses.
- Inspire storytellers by using this augmented reality app to prompt students during creative writing activities. This could also include a speaking activity with partners or round robin activity in small groups.
Check out Live Butterflies on the Apple App Store!
Have you used augmented reality to maintain engagement in learning goals? Of course you can share your stories below!