What is Augmented Reality?

According to Merriam-Webster, Augmented Reality is an enhanced version of reality created by the use of technology to overlay digital information on an image of something being viewed through a device (as a smartphone camera). In layman's terms, it is when an image, called a trigger, generates a video, slideshow, or computer generated graphic. Whether it be to help us shop, locate a nearby restaurant, see the world via Google Glass, interact with a book, share student work, or bridge the communication between home and school, augmented reality is seeping into our everyday lives. It's use in the classroom has students everywhere "oohing" and "aahhing" as they interact with pictures they've drawn or travel through the inside of a heart. Inspiration, engagement and motivation are elevated in our students as they unlock the creative potential of augmenting their reality!