Augmented reality is pretty much as it sounds—reality that’s digitally enhanced by technology. And while we’re still learning all that it’s capable of when it comes to improving presentations, what we know so far is pretty exciting.
Interactive Information Discovery
One of the fundamental capabilities of AR is that it can make static images and locations come to life with animations, graphics, and more information. For example, if you have an AR app on your phone, you might point your device at a bus stop advertisement for shoes and a list of nearby retailers selling that product pop up. Or you can scan a movie poster to see the trailer, or a street sign to check out the nearby restaurants and shops.
This particular AR functionality works great for presentations, too. Imagine showing your audience an image on screen that they can then explore further using their AR app. For instance, if you’re presenting on a car, you can show an image of it and members of the audience can then interact with that car in real-time by exploring the interior and exterior in detail using their phones. This allows your audience to experience information rather than simply hear it.
Improve Remote Presentations
The world is increasingly working remotely. And while this is great for flexibility, convenience, and creativity, it can really hurt presentations. Research suggests that the combination of body language and visual aids are even more important than the content you’re delivering. But if you’re presenting via webcam or a Zoom Room, then you can only show yourself or your visuals at one time, not both. That is, until AR came into the picture.
AR allows virtual presenters to easily merge their visuals with themselves so that they don’t lose the benefits of either. You can discuss a concept and, as you’re explaining it, graphics designed and chosen by you will appear right next to you on screen. The final result looks a lot like green screen technology without the need for an actual green screen.
Audience Integration
One of the biggest obstacles any presenter faces is getting their audience to feel engaged and connected to the presentation and message. And this makes sense—every audience member has a whole universe of unique problems, feelings, and ideas that are constantly competing for their attention.
With augmented reality, you invite the audience to be a part of the presentation. Rather than talk at them, you give them an opportunity to directly participate in and explore what you’re sharing. Not only does this make a presentation more compelling and engaging, but it makes audience members feel as though they’re in control of their learning experience. Furthermore, experiencing your ideas in this way invites an emotional response and connection that you simply won’t find with a standard slideshow.
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