Using Augmented Reality to Facilitate Music Learning for Preschool Children

Abstract

New technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) have been widely used in education fields. AR’s deep integration of virtual objects and real environments meets the diverse learning needs of learners. However, relatively few studies have explored the application of AR in preschool music education. Therefore, this study developed a mobile AR application for preschool children in learning music and investigated its impact on children’s learning achievement and enjoyment. We used a mixed research method, measuring academic performance through pre-test and post- test, a questionnaire for children’s enjoyment, and interviews to determine children’s views of AR usage in music learning. Sixty participants in two kindergarten classes participated in this study. The children in the experimental group used mobile-based AR applications for music learning, while the control group learned the same content through the traditional teaching method. The results showed that compared with the traditional teaching method, mobile AR has significantly improved children’s academic performance and enjoyment. In addition, the interview results also showed that the children considered AR learning activities to be very interesting and that they are willing to use AR for music learning in the future. The conclusions provide a concrete practical case on how to effectively integrate AR into preschool music education.