Examining the effect of augmented reality applications developed within the scope of music lessons on the academic achievement of high school students

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of music course conducted using Augmented Reality (AR) technology on the academic achievement of high school students. Additionally, the study seeks to explore students' perceptions of music course delivered through this technology. A review of theses related to AR technology in the Higher Education Council (YÖK) Thesis Center revealed that most studies on the subject were concentrated in the fields of computer engineering, as well as in various disciplines of education such as physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics, geography, and foreign languages. However, it was determined that there was limited number of studies focusing on music or topics requiring expertise in music education. Accordingly, this research is significant as it aims to contribute a new resource to the field and provide a foundation for future studies on the subject. Furthermore, this study is considered significant due to the fact that both the course material (e-book) and the augmented reality applications included within its content were developed by the researcher. The research was conducted using a mixed-methods approach, specifically employing an explanatory sequential design. In this context, quantitative data were analyzed first, followed by qualitative data. The quantitative dimension of the study was planned according to a quasi-experimental model, one of the quantitative research designs; the study group consisted of 10th-grade students enrolled in an officially recognized secondary education institution, randomly selected within the Altınordu district of Ordu province. Experimental and control groups were formed from randomly selected classes within the chosen institution, and the intervention was conducted over a four-week period, with sessions lasting two hours per week. The qualitative dimension of the study, on the other hand, was planned according to the case study model, as the numerical data obtained from the application were contextualized through the use of multiple data collection methods such as interviews and observations. These methods allowed for the integration of participants' experiences into the analysis. As data collection instruments, a researcher-developed achievement test, semi-structured interview forms, and observation forms were utilized. The quantitative data of the study were analyzed using SPSS-22 statistical software. Parametric tests, including the independent samples t-test and paired samples t-test, as well as the non-parametric Wilcoxon Signed Ranks test, were employed for analysis. The qualitative data were analyzed using the content analysis method. The results of the study revealed a significant difference in academic achievement between the control and experimental groups. Moreover, when the analyses of both qualitative and quantitative data were considered together, it was determined that the use of augmented reality applications and content in education facilitates learning, enhances the retention of information, captures students' interest, boosts their motivation, and has a positive impact on their academic achievement.