As augmented reality technology advances, the line between the digital and physical worlds continues to blur. The Computers in Human Behavior special issue (April 2023), edited by Dominik Mahr, Ko De Ruyter, and Jonas Heller, explores AR’s evolving role in human-computer interaction, from enhancing education to transforming consumer behavior.
A growing body of research underscores AR’s potential in learning environments, particularly in hands-on fields like medicine and engineering. One study highlights AR’s ability to overlay digital information onto real-world objects, allowing medical students to visualize complex anatomical structures in 3D. Similarly, in STEM education, AR applications enable students to interact with dynamic simulations that reinforce theoretical concepts. This aligns with findings from the Interactive Learning Environments special issue (Vol. 28, Issue 5), which examines how Cross Reality and Immersive Learning Environments reshape education through adaptive and interactive experiences.
Beyond education, AR is revolutionizing industries like retail and entertainment. Virtual try-on tools reduce uncertainty in online shopping, while AR-powered tourism applications provide interactive historical reconstructions. However, ethical concerns—including data privacy, digital addiction, and the psychological effects of hyper-realistic simulations—remain critical discussion points.
As AR continues to evolve, its implications for learning, work, and daily life demand ongoing exploration.