3D learning objects for augmented/virtual reality educational ecosystems

Looking towards the future of education in the 21st century, the importance of a strong STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) curriculum is unquestioned, with current EU projects discussing the common challenges adapting innovative teaching and learning methods and inspiring future generations of scientists. Recent predictions on Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies have suggested potential growth estimates of up to $182 billion in revenue by 2025, including hardware, software and content, which would exceed television revenue. VR and AR have the potential to become a standard tool in education and could revolutionise the teaching and learning (T&L) process via interaction with learning objects in 3D environments. This paper discusses the main concepts of learning objects with focus on the 3D element of knowledge components within emerging VR/AR educational ecosystems that need to be constructed, implemented and evaluated in order to create a teaching and learning environment that engages the senses in unique and innovative ways.