Augmented reality applications in children's books

Communication has remained a fundamental human need throughout history, enabling the sharing of information, emotions, and thoughts. With technological advancements, communication tools have undergone continuous transformation and innovation, leading to the diversification of communication methods across all aspects of human life. In particular, tools that combine visual and auditory elements make significant contributions to children's cognitive and emotional development. Illustrations used in picture books for children integrate with the text to support perceptual processes while also enriching their imagination. In recent years, the rapid evolution of technology has led to a shift in communication strategies within children's books toward more technology-oriented methods. In this context, studies on the use of Augmented Reality (AR) technology in children's books show that the experiences offered by books are transitioning from static structures to interactive and dynamic forms. The integration of AR technology into children's books provides an environment where children can enrich their imagination, explore and develop their unique abilities, and experience a spatial understanding that goes beyond traditional limitations. In this study, a theoretical framework has been developed regarding the use of AR technology in children's books, accompanied by a comprehensive literature Adı – Soyadı Burcu HALTALI Öğrenci No 224264001001 Anabilim Dalı Grafik Anasanat Dalı Bilim Dalı Grafik Sanat Dalı Programı Tezli Yüksek Lisans Danışmanı Prof. Dr. Birsen LİMON Tezin Adı Augmented Reality Applications in Children's Books Öğrencinin T.C. Selçuk Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü Müdürlüğüne vii review. Both electronic and printed sources were utilized in the research. Some of the earliest examples of this application in Turkey, such as Bana Bunu AKUT Öğretti and Bir Çocuk Bir Mucize by Gaga Publishing, were examined. Additionally, American titles published by Little Hippo Books, including Frozen: A Sleepover Party, Counting Fun with Mickey, and Cinderella, were also analyzed. This study comprehensively explores the integration of structural features of traditional books with AR applications in AR-supported children's books, examining their design processes and potential impacts.