Augmented Reality in Physics Education: Students with Intellectual Disabilities Inquire the Structure of Matter

Immersive technologies support educational activities and provide motivating contexts which are increasingly implemented in special education settings. Augmented Reality (AR) seems to improve the level of engagement in teaching and learning processes for all students, including students with Intellectual Disabilities (ID). However, there is a lack of research that investigates AR learning environments where students with ID can be involved in inquiry-based activities and acquire academic content linked to real situations. The purpose of this study was to implement a single-subject design and evaluate the effects of an AR system on students’ performance on the microscopic level of the structure of matter and especially the phase-states of water. A functional relationship was found between students’ correct responses during probe sessions and the AR inquiry-based intervention. In addition, a social validity assessment indicated that the AR glasses helped students with ID to acquire physics concepts, as well as inquiry skills in a vivid experience. The students also reported satisfaction from using the AR glasses. Suggestions for future research include the design of AR-based interventions for other science concepts for students with ID as well as other special educational needs.