Real-time visualization of electrical circuit schematics: An augmented reality experiment setup to foster representational knowledge in introductory physics education

Abstract

Empirical research has shown that augmented reality (AR) has the potential to promote learning in different contexts.1,2 In particular, this has been shown for AR-supported physics experiments, where virtual elements (e.g., measurement data) were integrated into the learners’ visual reality in real time: compared to traditional experimentation, AR reduced cognitive load3 and promoted conceptual learning.4,5 Drawing upon previous work from this column,6 we present an AR-supported experiment on simple electrical circuits that allows for real-time visualization including highlighting of electrical circuit schematics using either smartglasses or tablet computers. The experiment addresses students in introductory physics education and holds potential to provide visual assistance for complex electrical circuits in secondary or higher physics education.