Transforming Learning & Development: A Dive into Augmented Reality

Imagine walking into a room full of people, each wearing a pair of glasses that could transform the way they see and interact with the world around them. Sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, doesn’t it? But the reality is that augmented reality (AR) is no longer a distant dream; it’s here, and it’s revolutionizing the way we learn and work.

AR is a powerful technology that overlays virtual objects and information onto our physical environment, creating an immersive and interactive learning experience. In this post, we will explore how augmented reality works, its benefits, and how it is being used in the world of Learning and Development (L&D).

How Augmented Reality Works

At its core, AR works by combining real-world data with digital content, providing users with an enhanced view of their surroundings. This is typically achieved through the use of a smartphone, tablet, or specialized AR glasses.

The #1 place for Learning Leaders to learn from each other.

Get the data & knowledge you need to succeed in the era of AI.


We're an invite-only community for L&D leaders to learn from each other through expert-led roundtables, our active forum, and data-driven resources.

Apply to join LHQ

There are three main types of augmented reality:

• Marker-based AR: This type of AR uses a physical marker, such as a QR code or an image, to trigger the digital content.
• Markerless AR: This form of AR uses GPS, accelerometer, and other sensors to determine the user’s location, allowing digital content to be displayed without the need for a physical marker.
• Projection-based AR: This type of AR projects digital content onto a physical surface, creating the illusion of a hologram.

Benefits of Augmented Reality in Learning & Development

Augmented reality offers a wide range of benefits for L&D professionals and learners alike. Some of the key advantages include:

• Improved engagement: By providing a more immersive and interactive learning experience, AR helps to increase learner engagement and motivation.
• Enhanced retention: Studies have shown that learners who use AR are more likely to retain information, as the technology helps to create a more memorable learning experience.
• Real-time feedback: AR allows learners to receive instant feedback on their performance, helping them to better understand their progress and make improvements where needed.
• Increased collaboration: AR can be used to facilitate collaboration between learners, enabling them to work together on shared tasks and projects.

“I’ve seen incredible improvements in our employees’ understanding and retention of complex concepts since we’ve started using augmented reality,” says an L&D professional from a leading Fortune 500 company. “The technology has truly transformed the way we approach training and development.”

Real-World Examples of Augmented Reality in L&D

Many organizations have already embraced augmented reality as part of their learning and development strategy. Here are a couple of examples:

1. A large manufacturing company uses AR to train its employees on new production processes. By wearing AR glasses, workers can access step-by-step instructions and real-time guidance, helping them to learn new skills more quickly and effectively.
2. A healthcare organization has implemented AR to train its staff on new medical procedures. Through the use of AR glasses, doctors and nurses can view 3D models of the human body, as well as receive real-time feedback on their technique.

How Learnexus Can Help

At Learnexus, we understand the potential that augmented reality holds for revolutionizing the world of Learning and Development. Our marketplace connects organizations with top L&D professionals who specialize in AR, helping them to design and implement engaging, effective training programs that harness the power of this cutting-edge technology.

With Learnexus, companies can quickly and easily find and hire freelancers with highly specific skills and experience in Learning & Development, offering a 47% cost saving and saving managers time and eliminating procurement issues with a single master services agreement. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your L&D efforts through the use of augmented reality. Let Learnexus help you find the perfect AR expert for your organization today.