The Impact of Augmented Reality on Learning Outcomes and Learning Interest in Natural Science Subjects
Abstract
Augmented Reality (AR) has been recognized as a promising technology for supporting science learning through interactive three-dimensional visualization. However, empirical evidence on its effects within competency-based interdisciplinary curricula - particularly in lower secondary contexts where teacher accessibility and infrastructure constraints are significant - remains limited. This study examines the effects of AR-supported instruction on Grade 6 students' learning interest, immediate achievement, and short-term knowledge retention in Natural Science. It proposes a structured pedagogical framework for its implementation. A quasi-experimental design was employed with 65 sixth-grade students (experimental group: n = 30; control group: n = 35) from a public lower secondary school in Thai Nguyen Province, Vietnam. AR learning materials were developed using CoSpaces Edu across seven Natural Science topics and integrated through a four-step implementation process and a three-stage instructional model. Learning outcomes were measured via immediate and two-week delayed post-tests aligned with Bloom's taxonomy, and learning interest was assessed using a ten-item Likert-scale questionnaire demonstrating acceptable internal consistency (α = 0.793). Results showed that the experimental group significantly outperformed the control group on both assessments (immediate: M = 8.2 vs. 7.5; delayed: M = 7.8 vs. 6.7). One-way ANOVA confirmed statistically significant between-group differences (F(1, 63) = 12.190, p = 0.001, η² = 0.162), and survey data indicated strong student engagement and perceived learning benefit. These findings suggest that when AR is embedded in a structured pedagogical process on an accessible platform, it can enhance both short-term achievement and knowledge retention in Natural Science education for schools navigating digital transformation under the 2018 Vietnamese General Education Curriculum.