Spatial Augmented Reality Environment for the Development of Social Games in Preschool Education

Abstract

Given the isolation derived from the use of conventional screens in the preschool classroom, this work proposes a technological alternative aimed at fostering collaborative learning and the development of social skills. A Spatial Augmented Reality (SAR) environment is presented that, through the integration of a camera, a depth sensor, and a projection system, enables interaction with physical and virtual elements on the surface of a conventional table, providing an immersive learning experience in a safe physical space. Software development was based on an incremental model, which facilitated the creation and documentation of reusable programming primitives, as well as the design of social games for system validation. Results demonstrate that the environment supports the simultaneous interaction of multiple users with tangible and virtual elements through gestures and body movements, evidencing a high potential to strengthen cognitive, social, and motor processes in a context that stimulates curiosity, collaboration, and active learning.