# Spatial Augmented Reality for Collaborative Learning: Improving Architectural and Civil  Engineering Education with Immersive Group Learning Experiences

> **NSF 04002526DB NSF STEM Education** · University of Hawaii (HI) · $399,994

## Abstract

This project aims to serve the national interest by improving how architectural and civil engineering students learn abstract engineering concepts and develop knowledge about how to design buildings, bridges, and other large-scale structures. It seeks to build the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry sector by supporting a workforce with increased proficiency in structural design. The educational enhancements to be developed and tested in this Level 1 Engaged Student Learning project rely on immersive group learning activities designed to help students to comprehend fundamental engineering concepts and to visualize solutions to complex structural design problems without reliance on mathematical formulas. The pedagogy, technology, and methodology for designing these types of learning experiences could be applied to other curricula, suggesting that this research has significant potential for broader impacts on undergraduate STEM education in a range of disciplines that rely on physical or computer models to help visualize abstract concepts and solve complex problems.

Project goals include plans to build on recent advances in three technologies – Spatial Augmented Reality, Tangible User Interfaces, and Natural Language Processing – to develop a projection-based immersive learning environment with interactive physical models and a natural language interface to help support learning. The project design relies on Collaborative Learning, an educational approach th

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2519207
- **Awardee organization:** University of Hawaii (HI)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** NSCKLFSSABF2
- **PI:** Eric Peterson
- **Primary program:** 04002526DB NSF STEM Education
- **All programs:** AI-Supported Learning, Improv Undergrad STEM Ed(IUSE), EHR CL Opportunities (NSF 14-302), EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES, UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, GRADUATE INVOLVEMENT
- **Estimated total:** $399,994
- **Funds obligated:** $399,994
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2519207

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2519207, Spatial Augmented Reality for Collaborative Learning: Improving Architectural and Civil  Engineering Education with Immersive Group Learning Experiences. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2519207. Licensed CC0.

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