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Technology tells a new story as 成人论坛 jam Augmented Reality trials begin
成人论坛
jam (bbc.co.uk/jam)
the 成人论坛's new broadband learning service for 5 to 16 year olds, begins a three-month Augmented Reality (AR) storytelling trial.
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AR is a concept which allows users to interact with virtual 3D objects in real time, by using their own hands, rather than a mouse or a keyboard.
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The trial will enable users to see themselves on a
computer screen, holding and moving the 3D characters as they explore
the specially-created story (bbc.co.uk/jam/trial/ar). 听
AR works by mixing the live video from a digital camera with animated 3D models, which are made to appear in the hands of the user.
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This is achieved by special software which tracks patterns,
printed on paper, in each video image. AR technology allows learners
to literally pick objects off the page and explore them in a highly
rewarding way.
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The animated characters are able to interact with
other objects and each other; they are even able to walk off
the page. 听
Building on technology developments that have led to 成人论坛 using AR in the broadcast
of 成人论坛
News and 成人论坛 Sport,
the 成人论坛 is now able to bring the same technologies to the homes and classrooms
of the public.
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To be involved in the first trial all users will need is a standard PC, a webcam and a broadband internet connection. Free software access will be provided and users will be asked to fill in two short feedback forms during the three-month pilot.
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This first trial uses a brand-new story by the award-winning
children's author, Rob Lewis. Written especially for five to seven
year olds, it supports shared reading, at home or at school.
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During
the trials there will be user guides, teacher notes, tutorials
and technical support available and a space to share personal experiences
with other participants. 听
Adrian Woolard, Innovation Executive of 成人论坛 New Media Creative
Research & Development, and his team at the 成人论坛 have been working with the collaboration
of an open source community called AR Toolkit, to explore the use of the technology
in broadcasting.
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They would now like to see it used in classroom and
homes.
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The team has recently carried out two projects with
teachers and pupils in the 成人论坛's 21st Century
Classroom (21CC) -
a digital learning centre in central London, dedicated to exploring
creative and cutting-edge uses of technology in teaching and learning;
they are now looking to gauge the general public's reaction. 听
Adrian Woolard says: "AR is a highly innovative approach to learning. It builds on the 成人论坛's reputation as an innovator and a content provider prepared to experiment in engaging with learners.
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"AR is an incredibly visual and exciting way for
learners to interact with content, it is a great way for stimulating
a child's imagination and also encourages collaboration.
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"If the trial
is successful then we hope to launch further subjects for different
ages to explore, learn and create.
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"We believe that AR has the
potential beyond purely learning as a fun and initiative way
of interacting with digital content in collaborative ways for both
children and adults."
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