It's been a busy week as we've explored new augmented and virtual reality resources for the classroom. The adventures continue as we jump into augmented reality scavenger hunts!
A while back, I was searching for augmented reality scavenger hunt apps to share at conferences. I typically share Waypoint EDU because of the built-in content and the option to upload your questions. I ran across an app that incorporated both augmented reality in the hunt and machine learning called ScavengAR. While the app was still completing a “beta phase,” it wasn’t quite ready for classroom implementation.
One of the problems I had while testing the app was the difficulty in tracking the location and movement of the user. Another big problem was sharing the hunt was limited to only those in your specific area. Since then, the ScavengAR team has been busy at work with an update that just came out last week. The update allows anyone to join your hunt regardless of where they are located and the tracking seems to have improved significantly, even indoors.
For fun, I’ve created a short, AR ScavengAR hunt for you to test out. Follow these step by step instructions to get started, and don’t forget to share your experience in the app.
Download the iOS app & create a free account
Select Discover Hunts at the bottom of the screen, then tap “Playspace”
Scroll down to the bottom and start the ARVRinEDU Hunt
For educators, the issue of cost is always going to be a factor. The ScavengAR app is completely free, allowing classrooms to create many hunts and also offering the opportunity for students to build.
There are a variety of options for educators to include in the hunt. The first option is to build a hunt based on a specific location or a flexible hunt to be played anywhere. The hunt editor allows the user to customize the hunt for various playable areas, add items such as coins to collect and add checkpoints. The checkpoints can include objects, colors, or multiple-choice questions.
As with other augmented reality apps that use ARKit technology, this app is available on specific iOS devices that use current technology (A9 chip and above). The experience will get your students up and moving while providing immediate feedback to checkpoint responses. Give the app a try and create your ScavengAR hunt and share it out with the #ARVRinEDU community.
This blog is part of the #31DaysofARVRinEDU event. Expect a new augmented or virtual reality resource for the classroom to post every day in March. All subscribers will receive daily notifications.
Comments