Using a Location-Based Augmented Reality Mobile Application to Support the New Students’ Orientation Process

This study aims to develop a location-based augmented reality (LBAR) Android application and test its effectiveness in supporting orientation programs for newly enrolled students. The application was designed to facilitate easier adaptation to the environment and university life for novice students. Unity, ARCore SDK, and the AR+GPS Unity Package were used to develop the application. Using an experimental design, forty-four first-year students participated in the study. The experimental group consisted of 23 first-year students, while the control group consisted of 21 first-year students. The experimental group used the LBAR application, whereas the control group followed the traditional guide (person) assisted orientation program. The data collection instruments included a demographic survey form, a spatial ability inventory, a mobile orientation assessment survey, and pre- and post-tests designed to evaluate participants’ knowledge of specific locations. The analysis indicated that both groups improved their retention scores of institutional knowledge in the post-test compared to their pre-test scores after the orientation program. However, the physical orientation group performed better than the LBAR group in the post-knowledge test. No significant difference was found in spatial knowledge between the groups. Finally, students using the LBAR application generally provided positive views on the application’s use. We conclude that the location-based AR mobile application could be a valuable tool in the orientation process once the necessary enhancements are implemented.