Empowering Educators to Develop Augmented Reality Applications by Integrating Computational Thinking and Experiential Learning

Augmented reality (AR) promises rich, immersive experiences in learning, yet many educators lack the technical expertise to develop AR content independently. Existing authoring environments often emphasise functionality over instructional design, leaving educators reliant on pre-built resources that seldom match their learning goals. This study proposes EduCATE-AR, a template-based authoring model that integrates Experiential Learning (EL) and Computational Thinking (CT) to embed pedagogies directly into a modular-based authoring approach. Using a three-phase design science research approach, pedagogical principles were mapped onto AR authoring workflows to develop the model. A template-based editing environment was then constructed based on these mappings, and its use was evaluated through a mixed-methods study involving a focus group with educators. Quantitative results based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) indicated strong perceived usefulness and intention to use, particularly among educators without prior AR development experience. Qualitative findings further highlighted the model’s value in reducing technical barriers and supporting pedagogical structuring, while also revealing the need for improved extensibility and subject-specific flexibility. Collectively, the proposed model is a valuable addition to AR instructional design by empowering educators as content creators to develop pedagogically aligned AR applications with greater autonomy.

@article{Ghafar2026,
  title     = {Empowering Educators to Develop Augmented Reality Applications by Integrating Computational Thinking and Experiential Learning},
  journal   = {International Journal of Advanced Computer Science and Applications},
  volume    = {17},
  number    = {9},
  year      = {2026},
  publisher = {The Science and Information Organization},
  author    = {Najwa Abd Ghafar and Nazatul Aini Abd Majid and Mohd Nor Akmal Khalid and Shinobu Hasegawa and Tan Siok Yee and Lam Meng Chun},
  doi       = {10.14569/IJACSA.2026.0170917},
  url       = {https://doi.org/10.14569/IJACSA.2026.0170917}
}