Evaluation of an Augmented Reality Enhanced Tabletop System as a Collaborative Learning Tool: A Case Study on Mathematics at the Primary School

Abstract

Tabletop systems provide a big multi-touch surface suitable for multiple users to gather around it that can interact with the information collaboratively in a face-to-face manner. This kind of device is well adapted to be exploited in education, combining the advantages of e-learning systems with collaborative learning environments, which are adequate in educational paradigms based on constructivism and knowledge building. This article presents the capabilities of our in house developed tabletop system as a collaborative learning tool, which has been enriched with Augmented Reality capabilities and designed to follow the principles of Ubiquitous Computing and Natural Interfaces. The evaluation of the system was performed in a real educational context. Experience was driven to compare the tabletop learning scenario to other standard learning approaches. The evaluation method was centered on three parameters: efficiency, usability/satisfaction and motivation. Results conclude that tabletops represent a promising technology that can be applied successfully in educational contexts.