Augmented Reality and Microbit for Project-Based Learning

Abstract

The research proposes an augmented reality system integrating with the BBC Microbit microcontroller for student’s project-based learning. It is a learning tool that helps the students to understand about the augmented reality (AR) and the Microbit technologies. To increase the student’s motivation, the final project was conducted as an AR projectile-based shooting game application. The Microbit was also used as an external remote controller. Each player has an AR marker to define the position and the orientation of the player’s avatar and the Microbit for shooting the bullets. The learning goal of this proposed system is to help the student to understand about physics simulation related to the projectile, augmented reality, C# programming, the block-based programming with Microbit, basic electronics, hardware communication, computer graphics, painting, and the coordinate system. Furthermore, the proposed system was designed to support for various teaching and learning approaches including the interdisciplinary learning, project-based learning, and STEAM education. This proposed hands-on learning tool assists the learner to understand about the integration of core knowledges in science, engineering, arts, and math. The proposed system was used by 294 participants including Thai high school students, vocational students, and teachers from 3 provinces of Thailand. The experimental results showed that the learning achievement of students received improvement up to 19–36.28% by comparing the average T-scores of pretest and posttest. In addition, the teachers and students showed a good level of satisfaction on using the proposed system in teaching and learning.