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What are the potential risks associated with using augmented reality in education?

Marla McGrorty

As a user of an educational platform that uses augmented reality, I believe it's important to know the potential risks associated with its use. Augmented reality is a technology that uses a camera and sensors to add digital information to the real world. It's already being used in different areas, including education, to make learning more interactive and engaging. However, there are a few risks that we must be aware of:

1. Safety risks: When using augmented reality, we must be careful not to get too immersed in the digital world and forget about our surroundings. For instance, if we're using a device to explore a virtual world, we may not notice obstacles or hazards in the real world. It's important to use augmented reality devices in a safe and responsible way.

2. Addiction: While augmented reality can be a fun and interactive tool for learning, it can also be addictive. Some users may find it hard to disconnect from the digital world and may spend too much time using augmented reality devices. It's important to set limits and balance our time between the digital and real worlds.

3. Privacy risks: Augmented reality devices collect a lot of data about users, including their location, behavior, and preferences. This data can be used for targeted advertising or even be sold to third-party companies. As users, we must be aware of how our data is being used and take measures to protect our privacy.

4. Stereotypes and biases: Augmented reality devices may reinforce stereotypes and biases, especially in the way they represent different groups of people. For example, if a device only shows men as scientists or doctors, it may reinforce the idea that women are not fit for these roles. It's important to ensure that augmented reality content is diverse and inclusive.

5. Educational value: While augmented reality can make learning more fun and engaging, it's important to ensure that it also has educational value. Some augmented reality experiences may be more focused on entertainment than on learning, which may not benefit users in the long run.

In conclusion, augmented reality can be a valuable tool for education, but it's important to be aware of its potential risks. By using it in a safe and responsible way, setting limits, protecting our privacy, and ensuring that it has educational value, we can make the most out of this technology.