Ci 2312 Week 11 VR and AR

Mingzhu Ye
2 min readApr 5, 2021

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As a person who loves video games, I have been troubled by the difference between VR (Virtual reality) games and AR (Augmented reality) games for a long time. Since both things seem to blur the relationship between virtual and reality, it can often be confusing. In this week’s study, I understood that VR is an immersive space that enables people to simulate a reality in cyberspace through VR devices. On the other hand, AR is the projection of some virtual objects into reality through a lens and other devices. These presentations not only allow us to see the world in a different way but also facilitate our work in different fields. Before studying this week’s content, I had always thought that VR and AR were only suitable for use in games. But in the process of reading this week’s material, I discovered that VR and AR have very great potential and service. For example, some astronautical agencies could use VR to do some exercises on working on the moon or use AR technology in maps to facilitate people’s lives.

I think it is interesting that AR can help alleviate the symptoms of children with autism and improve their understanding. Children are more motivated to interact with the natural world and are able to gain a sense of control when using AR. This type of interaction can help children better perceive the world and reduce their own struggles and doubts. What I’m curious about is how do kids apply this knowledge to real life? Will they become dependent on it? And if they do, how can we help them get rid of this dependency?

Another interesting example for me is the use of VR and AR in the classroom. By using Expeditions, we can project models into real life and help students learn better. For example, it is possible to launch a globe in the classroom so that students can learn more about it in geography class and provide teachers with more teaching options. However, I am curious if there are any significant drawbacks to such an educational approach. First, such an educational approach may have some impact on students’ attention. Although it can increase students’ motivation to learn, they may ignore the content of the teacher’s lecture and concentrate on the “game.” Secondly, I am curious if this educational model can be used on a large scale. Many schools in remote areas can’t even afford a computer. However, using VR and AR requires better equipment, which may be unaffordable for some schools and students. In this case, how can we apply VR and AR to education in a more equal and efficient way?

Photo by Vinicius “amnx” Amano on Unsplash

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Mingzhu Ye

A student who is studying education and wants all children to have a bright future.