Publications

We present our experience applying a gamification methodology and exploiting augmented reality in order to motivate learners to become actively engaged in researching their cultural heritage and exploring local history, monuments and pieces of art via their engagement in playful yet educational activities. Past and current research demonstrates that students engage themselves more actively in learning activities when these involve socialising, self-guided discovery and teamwork and latest technology trends promote learning outside of the classroom in informal settings. In this context, we have invited learners to re-discover familiar urban spaces, collect information on people commemorated on street names, statues and other landmarks and then design a technology based activity that others could follow in an educational yet playful manner. On all cases, participants responded positively on both the process and the learning outcome, reported feeling more confident on their coding skills, gaining better understanding of the IT terminology and tools involved as well as better familiarising urban spaces that they frequently used.