Augmented reality is an artificial reality that uses the existing environment around itself and overlays new information upon of it. For this assignment, I use Aurasma Studio to create an “aura” or augmented reality by using the character of the Squire from “The Canterbury Tales.” Under “assets” there was a picture of the Squire.
To create an aura for the picture click on the top right corner where it says, “+Create New Aura”, continue by clicking “Next”, and finally click the gray button that says “Click to Upload Overlay”. At this point you can upload a picture or video that will overlay the stock photo you choose previously. 
Once you have chosen your overlay, you can “add actions” on the overlay and be able to add a link to maybe another image, video, or website
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Once here, you can add the action and choose whether you want the action to appear when the overlay it tapped, or double tapped, or even after the overlay finishes appearing. There are a couple actions to play around with. After completing your overlay and actions, click next and in the following screen you can save the aura, preview it, and even share it.
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For my overlay I chose the picture of the Squire and for my action I had a website that is about squires, which, explains in details what is a squire as well as what they did in the Medieval Era. To be able to see the aura you created, you have to download an app called “HP Reveal” its a free app and allows you to play with your creation. All you have to do is aim your phone camera at the trigger image and the app does the rest.
on the left is a screenshot I took with my phone of what happens when the HP Reveal app sees the trigger image and the on right is after you have clicked on the image that popped up.
I find this be a great teaching tool because education is becoming more and more geared towards using technology like computer, iPads, iPhones, and any other smart devices. The use of augmented reality could help spark interest and teach students at the same time. Educators need to find new ways to be able to have students comprehend as well as interact with the material and information that is needed for a general education and augmented reality may be a solution.
-JP Ospina