Creating engaging learning experiences that are easy to use and support the different learning requirements of university students is challenging. However, improvements in simulation technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), are making such changes possible. The aim of this study is to use a mobile-based AR technology to develop an interactive learning module about contraceptive devices and medicines and to measure its acceptability and usability by undergraduate pharmacy students. The learning module comprising AR images of contraceptive medicines, case studies relating to their use and a series of directed questions was completed by 33 pharmacy students. Students answered a survey to collect information about the usability and acceptability of AR for learning. The results show that the majority of students reported that AR is a useful resource for learning about medicines compared to more traditional methods, such as didactic lectures and tutorials. Students indicated that the AR application was easy to use and improved their knowledge of medicines. These findings suggest that AR technology is a useful tool to create engaging and easy to use learning experiences for university students.

There is increasing use of augmented reality (AR) technology, which combines the virtual and real world, in the tertiary education sector. AR enables flexibility in student learning, since this technology may be used in the face to face setting and may also be accessed by students at any time outside of this setting. The purpose of this study was to develop an AR tool and investigate its effectiveness for learning about the medication naloxone using AR in a MagicBook; and determine student opinions on its acceptability and usability. Using a sequential explanatory, mixed method design, 25 undergraduate pharmacy students were recruited to participate in the study. Pre- and post-tests were used to measure changes in knowledge and a survey was used to collect information on the usability and acceptability of AR for learning. The findings of the study indicated that AR technology was able to support student learning on the chosen topic, showing 42% improvement in quiz score p < 0.0001, and that students found using AR was stimulating, interactive, engaging and easy to follow. Thus, AR technology could be an effective way to enhance student learning about medicines.