Role of AR and VR in Empowering Students with Learning Disabilities and Shaping Modern Education

By Nischal Narayanam

• Traditional education struggles to meet the needs of students with learning disabilities. In India, 12.8% of students face these challenges.
• According to Statista, the AR and VR incorporated education market stands at US$73.0m in 2024, with projected growth at a rate of 47.87% from 2024 to 2030.
• AR and VR are emerging technologies that can transform education. AR makes learning interactive with visual content, while VR creates immersive experiences.
• Smartphones are widely available in India, making AR a powerful tool for education. AR apps can bring textbooks to life and make learning more engaging.
• AR and VR empower students to learn at their own pace and independently explore concepts, fostering a more inclusive learning environment.

With the ever-evolving world of education, technological revolution has taken a centre stage, reshaping the way students engage with learning. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are two key players driving such a revolution.

The Need for Inclusive Learning Solutions in India:

As we deep dive into the current state of educational technology (EdTech) in India, it is evident that diverse groups of students, particularly students with learning disabilities, need such tech-driven solutions at their disposal for seamless learning.

Challenges of Traditional Education Systems:

Education in India has undergone a remarkable transformation. As per a report done by Statista, the AR and VR incorporated education market stands at US$73.0m in 2024, with projected growth at a rate of 47.87% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is not only driven by embracing technology but also by acknowledging the unique challenges faced by the students and adapting to their varied learning styles. For students with learning disabilities, traditional education systems can often feel like a maze filled with obstacles. The prevalence of learning disabilities in India reported at 12.8% overall, highlights the significant number of students navigating through a system that may not cater to their specific needs. According to UNICEF, at least 93 million children with disabilities “are one of the most marginalised and excluded groups in society and they suffer from discrimination with regard to access to education”. Hence, it is essential to recognize that not everyone learns the same way, and the cookie-cutter approach to education may inadvertently leave many students behind, affecting their overall mental growth.

What are AR and VR?

Many Edtech organisations around the globe are trying to address these issues through the development of AR and VR-induced learning solutions that can aid such students and usher in a new era of inclusive education. But what is AR and VR?  Augmented Reality (AR)  transforms static images and concepts into dynamic and immersive content catering to different learning styles. This enables students to visualise complex scientific and mathematical concepts in a more interactive and practical manner. Virtual Reality (VR) leverages immersive technologies to simulate interactive virtual environments or virtual worlds with which users become subjectively involved and in which they feel physically present. It brings two key elements to education, making learning more accessible: the immersive feeling of being present and the hands-on experience of interacting with content in three dimensions through gestures and manipulation.

Benefits of AR and VR in Education:

The real power of AR lies in its accessibility, with over 49% of students owning a smartphone, AR technologies are immediately available to the majority. Inclusive education setups leverage VR to reshape how children learn, providing challenges, capturing focus, and fostering emotional engagement. The hands-on experience of interacting with content in three dimensions opens new avenues for learning, particularly in subjects like mathematics, where students can visualise and manipulate geometric figures. AR and VR tools prove instrumental in empowering children to take more independent control of their learning journey. The interactive nature of these technologies allows them to explore and grasp concepts at their own pace, breaking free from the limitations imposed by traditional learning methods.

The Rise of AR in Indian Education:

In India, augmented reality (AR) is emerging as a transformative force, particularly in addressing the diverse needs of students. The accessibility of AR-based applications, now even available on low-cost smartphones, is reshaping the educational sector. Initiatives such as the Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) under the Atal Innovation Mission are actively introducing students to emerging technologies, including the immersive world of augmented reality. Imagine textbooks coming to life, fueled by the power of augmented reality. This isn’t just a technological marvel; it’s a gateway to curiosity, a foundation-strengthening tool, and a catalyst for longer retention. AR doesn’t stop at the boundaries of traditional learning methods; it empowers educators to craft digital lesson plans accessible globally. With the right technology, anyone, regardless of their geographical location, can engage in lessons, fostering a truly inclusive learning experience.

Smartphones and the Potential of AR in Learning:

As the primary mode for online learning, smartphones play a pivotal role, with a staggering 79% of students in India relying on them. This statistic takes on added significance when compared to the 17% with access to laptops and a mere 4% to tablets for learning purposes, as revealed by the India Lockdown Learning report. The transformative potential of AR extends beyond textbooks and lesson plans. Picture this: the ability to simulate heart surgery or operate a space shuttle, all without endangering lives or risking potential damages. Such simulations, made possible through AR, not only ensure safety but also minimise the risk of hazardous reactions, especially in the realm of intricate chemistry experiments. A notable initiative in this sphere is the e-Pathshala AR App, an undertaking by NCERT under the aegis of MHRD-Government of India. This app doesn’t just aim to energise textbooks; it seeks to augment interactions across the educational spectrum — from child to child, teacher to teacher, and child to adult.

Conclusion:

So, why is it crucial to extend these transformative tools to more students? The answer lies in the very fabric of inclusivity and equal opportunities. Every student deserves a chance to learn in a way that suits their individual needs. By embracing AR and VR, we not only bridge the gap for students with learning disabilities but also revolutionise education for all. As we navigate this transformative journey, it’s imperative to recognize that education is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. The incorporation of AR and VR in classrooms signifies a commitment to providing every student with an opportunity to thrive, learn, and succeed. In empowering students with learning disabilities, we pave the way for a future where education knows no bounds, and every learner can unlock their full potential.

(This article has been drafted by Mr. Nischal Narayanam, Founder and Mentor, nischals, and the views expressed in this article are his own)