EstelAR: an Augmented Reality Astronomy learning tool for STEM students

Abstract

In this paper, we present EstelAR, a markless Augmented Reality learning tool focused on understanding introductory Astronomy topics at an undergraduate level. We make use of markless technology to create an autonomous learning app for STEM students. We describe the development process. To measure EstelAR's achievement, we conducted a pre/post- test experiment with a group of 34 STEM students, divided into two classes (experimental and control). The result indicates that EstelAR had a similar performance compared to the traditional in-person method to learn stellar Astronomy subjects. A lack of retention in the short-term (7 days) was detected for both groups. We comment on the result and describe the limitations in the conclusions.