Enhancing Autonomous Learning in Maker Spaces: The Impact of Augmented Reality Tutorials at the Innovaction Gym (#1765)

Authors

Gómez Flores, Lilia

Torrero Mora, Orlando

Valadez Rojas, Laura Angélica

Cortes Capetillo, Azael Jesus

Abstract

The current century has seen a growing interest in applying Augmented Reality (AR) to create innovative learning tools. The integration of Augmented Reality (AR) in educational settings has shown promise in enhancing interactive learning experiences. This study reports the findings from applying AR to facilitate autonomous learning for students using various quick prototyping machines at the Innovaction Gym at Tecnológico de Monterrey. The initiative's primary goal is to enable students from all disciplines to operate complex equipment independently, fostering self-reliance and confidence. By diminishing reliance on administrative guidance, the program aims to streamline the learning process and enhance operational efficiency within a university lab such as a maker space. Custom AR tutorials were developed for each piece of equipment, providing intuitive, step-by-step visual instructions. The effectiveness of these AR guides was assessed through usage analytics and qualitative feedback from students, focusing on ease of learning and the reduction in administrative intervention. The introduction of AR tutorials has led to a marked improvement in students' self-directed learning, with a notable decrease in the need for staff-led demonstrations. The success of AR implementation in the educational context has also sparked interest in its potential applicability in industrial settings, indicating a wider scope of influence and utility.